DreadFul Perspectives: Part 3 (Things To Know and Do)

      

UnLoc'd

 Things to Know and Do When You Want To Un-loc

This is the end of the three-part series on dreadlocks. I hope that everything said before was not taken in vain and that you all learned something new. Something different. 

For this final part of the series, I will be discussing what you should know and do when you want to untangle the locs. 

The things that you should know and do are pretty simple and has proven to be effective for those who have tried it.

As you may or may not know, there are several ways to remove locs from your hair. Three of the most used are cutting, going to a professional salon that specialises in loc removal and combing out locs. 

The last one-combing out locs, will be discussed in detail. 
If you do not want to cut off your ras or go to a professional for help there is an alternate choice for you. If you are interested in retaining a good amount of length after you revert to looser curls, combing out your ras should be your top choice. 

I know of one person who has recently combed out their locs and already their hair looks super healthy. So, there is hope for the hopeless. 

Let us get into what you should know about combing out locs. 

1. Do Your Own Research!
It is always important to do research before you decide to make any final decisions, period. In doing research you will understand if combing out your locs is something that you really want to do. It is a lot more time consuming when compared to cutting off your ras. But, if you really want to preserve most of your loose curls I would advise you to do your own research. There are many influencers, YouTubers and bloggers who can assist in this area. All you have to do is be willing and open to the information that will be presented to you. It will be a huge transformation, especially for those who had locs for a very long time. 

2. Build the Confidence To Do it On Your Own
This process will test you over and over again. One solution will be to talk to someone who has combed out their ras before. By talking to people who have gone through what you might be going through can help boost your confidence and guide you through the process. They will give you the steps, tools and techniques to use to achieve the results you want after combing out your locs. They can even put you on to someone who has even more experience with loc removal. Knowing the above will increase your confidence and you will be equipped for looser curls.

3. Be Prepared To Do Majority Of The Work Yourself
Yes, some times it will be difficult to rely on people to help you with anything. However, once you build the confidence and prepare yourself for what's to come you can do it. The majority of work when it comes to unlocking your locks will have to come from you. If you get someone or several people to help you then great, the work will be done at a faster pace. However, if you do not have the help you can take your time. Research has shown that some people who do not have help with unlocking their ras take approximately 1-3 weeks at their own pace. So, the work will be done once you put in the time. If it takes you 1-3 weeks without help there is no need to be scared. Whenever you have to leave the house whether it is for class, shopping or simply to go watch a movie, you can tie your head in a scarf, bonnet or head tie. Make sure that the listed options above are silk or satin.  

4. People Will Question Your Decision
Combing out your locks is ultimately your decision. People will question your choice and ask why you chose to comb it out instead of just cutting your hair short. If retaining length is that important to you then you should not feel guilty if someone is against it, especially someone who has never worn ras before. The decision is up to you. The truth is, not everyone will look attractive with a short haircut and it will not suit their face. Therefore, deciding to comb out your dreads instead of cutting it off will be the better option. 

5. Shedding Of Hair While Combing Out The Locs Is Normal
It is no surprise that your hair will naturally shed when you start combing it out. Do not get frightened or discouraged. It is completely normal to shed hair, especially when you have locks and decided to comb it out. Once you are gentle and do not pull the hair while combing it out the shedding will not be extreme. Be sure to cut the ends of the locks before you start combing it out. The ends are the most knotted part of the locks and trying to comb out from the ends without cutting it first can cause more harm than good. So, always remember to cut the ends first then start combing out from the unloosed ends working your way up the hair shaft until you reach the roots.

6. Have Good Products During and After The Procedure
Having the right products at hand is key to retaining and maintaining healthy hair. Whether you prefer homemade remedies or store-bought products they all can have an impact on how your hair looks, feels and grows. Make sure you choose wisely. Next week I will be posting my DIY (Do It Yourself) recipes that I have incorporated in my hair regimen. It can save you from having to purchase tons of products that may or may not work for your hair. And by saving you can inject that money into other areas of your life. For example, creating and implementing a better healthier meal plan.  A good diet is also important for hair growth. As you may know, your hair starts to grow from the inside so whatever you put in is what you will get out. 

7. Be Patient
Yes, I have and will always mention this because it is an important aspect of any hair journey. You have to be patient to see positive results. If you wish to have your hair grown at a faster pace I have some sad news for you. There is no potion or magic spell that can get you the results you want right away. Instead, you have to come up with a hair regimen and maybe even keep a diary at hand to document all that you have been through throughout your progress or lack thereof. Documenting your journey can also be therapeutic. It can also help you dissect what works and what doesn't. This way you will know what to keep in your hair regimen and what to avoid completely. 

Now that we have dealt with what you should know, let us get into what steps you should take. 

We must remember that not everyone who grows locs have the same textured hair and type. Therefore, it is important to read up on ways of removing locs from people who have a similar hair texture to your own. This first step will be beneficial for the rest of your unlocking process. 

1. Shampoo Hair
Using a clarifying shampoo after unlocking your hair is very beneficial. It is important to ensure that your hair is clean. After combing out your locks this is the first step that you will have to follow. Make sure you read the ingredients at the back of the shampoo you will be using. This way, you will have an idea of what you will be putting on your hair. An alternative can be to ask a professional who is tailored to dealing with locks, locs removal and treatment of looser curls. 

2. Condition Hair
This is one step that was always avoided during your loc'd days (using conditioner would have made the locs soft and untangled) but after you comb the locks out it is very essential. Conditioning, deep conditioning and using a leave-in conditioner are all important for enhancing the hair's strength and elasticity. Deep conditioning should be done right after you shampoo or condition your hair. It should also be done whenever you wash your hair. Who wants stringy, thin and unhealthy hair? No one does. Maybe you should consider doing a protein treatment after taking out the locks. Protein can help to strengthen the hair and it must not be used regularly but only when necessary. You will know when your hair needs a protein treatment. It can be a result of moisture overload (hygral fatigue). Ensure that there is a balance between protein and moisture for stronger looking and smoother hair.

3. Ensure That Hair Is Always Saturated
Always make sure that your hair is fully saturated with water. This allows the products to do what they are meant to do better. The amount we use can also lessen when our hair is completely saturated with water. It is very important and it should be done before you shampoo your hair. 

4. Have A Spray Bottle Present At All Times
If you do not like to apply your leave-in conditioner in the shower then be sure to have a spray bottle at hand. You can never have too much water in your hair. This will allow the products to work better on your hair. 

5. Massage The Head
Massaging the hair with a tool or simply with your hands can be so beneficial. It circulates blood flow throughout our head which stimulates hair growth. So, massage your head before you shampoo. This can be done during the hot oil treatment phase which will be discussed in the next point.

6. Use a Hot Oil Treatment
Whichever oils you decide to use as a Hot Oil Treatment is totally up to you. Some of the most basic yet effective oils are coconut, olive, almond, avocado, Jamaican black castor oil, peppermint and any other oils of your choice. Place all of these oils in a bottle and mix it together. You can even add shea butter to the mix if you like. Mix them together and place it in a bowl of hot water. Allow it to cool for a minute or 2 then apply it on your hair thoroughly. Massage the head and then cover with a plastic cap. You can also utilise the Greenhouse Effect which is allowing the natural heat from your head and the oils to penetrate layers deep. When the heat is trapped and mixes with the oils it creates a Greenhouse Effect. You can leave it on for a few hours or leave it overnight, rinse then shampoo. 

7. Trim and Cut When Necessary 
Trimming and cutting the hair when it is needed is important. However, if your hair is healthy and doesn't need cutting or trimming then what are you really doing? This can result in cutting or trimming good hair which can stunt hair growth and length retention. It is beneficial to have a schedule but if your hair really does not need trimming then you should just leave it alone. Also, never use regular scissors on your hair. Make sure that you are using shear scissors. 



8. Repeat 1 Through 6 Regularly and 7 Occasionally
 Repeating these steps can constitute to a hair regimen.  And as we know, a hair regimen is done by repetition of the steps listed above.  

DreadFul Perspectives: Part 2 (Dreadfully Beautiful)

                             

 Loc'd

Everyone has their perceptions and beliefs of what is right from wrong. Living in a world where everybody claims to know the "truths" about what should govern our behaviours has proven to be inefficient and ineffective. Some people force their beliefs on us while others just fail to accept that we all have different backgrounds and stories. It is indeed a "dreadful" turn of events which is loc'd into our minds. How can we unlock it? By living in the now and learning all about the dreadful stories of those who have been loc'd in. 

I had the privilege of interviewing 12 participants on the topic "Dreadlocks." All parties have worn dreads at some point in their lives. I will be presenting their stories collectively to should how they had very similar viewpoints but still unique perspectives.

Out of the 12 participants, 10 were females and 2 were males. 

There were 11 topics that came out of the questions that the respondents were asked. The images below are of each individual who willingly participated in the interview. Their names were left out intentionally for privacy purposes.

               

1. Symbolic Meaning

To many of the respondents, dreads had a very symbolic meaning to them. Some of which included; expression of self, freedom, roots and confidence, natural, powerful, risk-taker, identity and easy to wear. 

All of the words and phrases listed above made the individuals feel connected to themselves in a way they had never envisioned. In contrast, many envisioned growing dreads but were afraid to start the locking process. 

       1. a 
This is a subsection of symbolic meaning because when they heard the words dreads/locks/locs/dreadlocks/ras what came to their minds were things I had never thought they would have said. 

Some included Bob Marley, strength and power, redemption, stir up feelings of oppression/marginalisation, admiration, naturally unique, rasta, natural, powerful, beautiful, long matted hair that takes time and patience to maintain, a style in your hair that keeps all the dead hair together, humility, love and a pet worn on your head. 

The majority had positive thoughts when the aforementioned words came to mind. A minority stated that oppression and marginalisation came to mind when they heard those words. Oftentimes there has been a lot of negative implications when it comes to someone who wears or has worn dreads. In almost every sector of society someone who wore ras has or is still being treated differently when compared to someone without the hairstyle. This is the sad reality but it has and still exist today. The funny thing is though, dreads in its natural state comes out of the heads of those who choose to wear it. Stereotyping someone for wearing it only displays the prejudice and discrimination that needs to be fixed in order for us to move forward as a society.  

Imagine living in a society where your hairstyle declares if you can or cannot get a job. It has nothing to do with your qualifications and how you did in the interview because the only memorable thing is the hair on your head. Isn't it just sad to think about? However, it still happens today. Do not talk about if you do not or cannot upkeep your ras. It will be the death of you!

  

                                                                         

2. Reason For Growing Ras And Peoples' Reactions

No one should ever be criticised if they do not have a solid reason for growing their ras. One person was inspired by their mother's crown. This comment was not expected at all because it is not what we often hear. Many times parents or relatives even friends may try to talk us out of doing something even if that something can improve our overall wellbeing. 

Many considered it for a long time while others just got fed-up of combing and styling their loose curls over and over again. Two of the respondents were heavily involved with sports so growing the ras to them was one thing they did not have to stress over. It was easy to style and not time-consuming, especially for the person who disliked combing their hair. 

One female, who is of East Indian and Spanish descent stated that a lot of people close to her had negative views towards it. She received a lot of negative views from people who told her she did not have African roots. The comments were somewhat hash. It went so far that they told her she was ruining her hair and the hairstyle was not for her. It was amazing to hear someone of East Indian and Spanish descent tried ras. Even though it should not come as a surprise because ras has a deep spiritual and religious meaning with the god Shiva.  Notwithstanding, strangers on the streets (rastas), gave her positive feedback and compliments. When she cut her ras many told her she did not know what she wanted with her hair. Her response, "I was just brave enough to try new things."

Another just wanted to create a new identity. To many, this might seem as though they want to become someone completely different from who they are. However, wanting to change up your style and incorporate a new look for yourself is a confidence and self-esteem booster. Many of us have to constantly remind ourselves of our worth. Each and every day we are faced with confronting the person in the mirror. Why do we do this? Because many of us find assurance in the way others describe us and not so much in the way we perceive our own self. 

Others got mixed reactions from people. Some loved it and then some hate it. Funny thing is, whenever the word RAS is mentioned in my household or family it automatically insinuates a negative view. It is as though the word ras has the same or equal effects as the coronavirus. They paint it out in a way that if you use the word, you will get infected and possibly die. It is an extreme statement but it just goes to show how terrible it is even today. Many make it seem as though growing ras is taking away one's virginity. When in fact, it is actually just hair that grows and can be styled and cut whenever the individual is ready. I wish this was not the reality but sadly, it is. 

There is absolutely nothing wrong with changing up your style a bit. Once it is something that makes you happy and is not at all detrimental to your physical, mental, social or psychological wellbeing. 

                 

                       












3. Number of Years Being Loc'd

In no particular order, the number of years each person interviewed had their ras were; 2, 1, 13, 1 1/2, 6, 1, 4, 9, 13, 3, 2, 7.  

By the numbers listed above, it is clear to suggest that everyone had reached a particular journey in their ras growth that was ultimately different to another. By listing the years each person had or still has their ras, there is a bigger clearer picture of each person's growth and overall journey. This also made it easier to comprehend what they went through at each step of their loc'd journey. All of their views were greatly appreciated. 

                                                                            

4.  Maintenance

Each individual had their own unique ways of taking care of their locs. The responses given by those who willingly took part in the interview were very satisfying. Many used water and oils and avoided gel because to them it caused a lot of buildup. Others took time to wash and treat their locks. There were also salon goers, persons who interlocked, retwist and styled on their own. Some had no choice but to learn because they were far from their support system and friends who knew the ins and outs of locking. One person stated that they interlock every two months and used beeswax. Another interlocked and twisted monthly to upkeep the locks at the front for neatness. One person washed their hair every two weeks and then palm rolled and used styles that were not tight but what would last for two weeks. One female stated that she incorporated a hot oil treatment in her ras regimen. The oils she used were Jamaican black castor oil, coconut oil, vitamin E and olive oil. She used it 2-3 times a week because the ras gets really dry. To her, needling too often can cause breakage to ras and damage. Therefore, she palm rolls often and needles occasionally. 

                                                             

5. Challenges 

We all know that there is always a flip side to anything. In this case, the respondents listed the most challenging thing to them while wearing ras. One person said dealing with buildup in the early stages of their ras growth and journey. Another said keeping the roots moisturised while preventing the locks from thinning out. Another person claimed to dislike washing their dreads because of the weight and the length of time it took to dry. One said that the most challenging thing for them was styling because they were afraid that their hairline would recede. 

One individual assumed that there was not a big difference in the treatment persons received during screening time at the airport. Also, they assumed the police were vigilant with everyone in the course of their duty. The subtlety in the way one is treated with and without ras is some times expressly stated or implied. Many associate a negative label with ras wearers just because they decide to wear ras. It appears to have less to do with your ethnic background and more with the decision to wear ras. As one person mentioned, "I think people are wired to associate a lovely hairstyle that for me, really shows love for your naturally black beauty, with all these negative ideas."  This could not have been said any better. Once something goes against society's views of what is acceptable versus what is not, the labels begin to find their way on all the rebellious outliers. 

Being unapologetically you and loving the way you see yourself is important. Especially while trying to survive in this cruel world. If you do not stand for something you will fall for anything. Never let someone belittle you because you were brave enough to try something new. Many people paint risk-takers as rebellious indecisive people. Well, the naysayers are the ones who are afraid to be authentic and artistic. Continue taking risks until you find what you were destined to get and what you were destined to be. But, never forget to take the essence of who you are with you. 

                           









6. Transformation-Growing/Cutting

While some had to build the confidence others enjoyed each chapter of their hair's journey. One respondent mentioned that many were shocked that he cut his dreads but the majority accepted and loved the unloc'd hair. With some even saying that they loved the low cut more. The connection that someone has with their hair is really deep. The way we wear our hair changes our appearance and confidence among other factors. Thus, when one person said that they still have their locks in a bag hoping for one day to put them back in hurts a lot. They are hopeful that after the thinning of the front of their hair is resolved they will be approved to add locks again. 

We sometimes let ourselves get the best of us. We live in our head too much. It is healthier to come out and try to deal with things that are affecting us. One person imagined bad experiences when they decide to cut their ras but the entire experience for them was fun. They enjoyed trying a new style and always look forward to a fresh haircut and mark which meant a new design. 

One mentioned that they lost their hairline when they had ras. Another did not like their hair short and missed having ras. They found it difficult to style the unloc'd hair but as it grew longer they are now able to put it in a woogie. 

It was a total change for other persons but they felt good about it. One person out of all who were interviewed combed out their locs after 13 years. It took that person three days with the help of her mom and cousin to comb out the locks. She claims to love her curls and have not regretted it since. 

 7. Cut it/Fear

 Out of a total of 12 persons, 2 said that they did not fear to cut their ras. They did not go in-depth with why they were not fearful to cut their ras. However, they said that they will cut it when they are ready. The other person revealed that they worked too hard to grow it and they do not want to cut it right now. But, they will cut it when the time is right.

For those on the flip side, they had a deeper connection with their ras. Maybe because they had it in longer. Also, it became a part of their identity so cutting it meant a part of who they are would have been lost. One person said that their ras was who they are as a person but then they realised that they are not their hair. But, the person said, "I sometimes feel as though I succumbed by cutting my hair, to the pressures of our anachronistic social structures."

One person wanted it for so long that they did not want to part from it just because people had negative views about it. The person did however cut it but for other reasons. 

 A female respondent said that she embraced all seasons of her hair; from relaxed hair to loose natural. Then, taking a leap in her early 20s to ras. Now she has a low cut which she accepts and enjoys the growth and journey as well. 

 Two persons agreed that they were fearful to cut their ras. One did not want to go bald so they unloc'd it. The other did not want to cut it but they had too. The results of keeping it would have been detrimental. Constant twisting and styling was too much of a strain on the hair (roots and follicle) which ended in thinning and damage. With the locks came confidence but there was a decision to be made. They did not let their locks define who they were as an individual. 

        

8. Offsprings and Ras

I was surprised by the responses to this topic. Almost everyone agreed that they will allow their child/children to wear dreads. One person said that because they were allowed to grow their own they will, in return, allow their child/children to grow ras as well. On person went a little deeper by stating that, "Ras, in particular, in a way, is an expression that tells of one's love for his or her natural self and beauty. For you to grow and wear a ras in a world that provides so many other unnatural alternatives certainly suggests that." 

Two individuals said that they will allow their offspring to wear ras but only if they are capable of maintaining it. One said if they, "Realised the strain is too much on their hair, or if the hair is constantly thinning or breaking, then I would suggest that their discontinue. This happened to me and resulted in hair damage which is why I had to cut my hair." 

 One person said yes but they will have to wait until they are 18 years or older to make their own decisions. "I will support them 100% in whatever decision they make and help them through it."

The person who said no claimed that it was too much work to maintain; interlocking and styling.  

However, the responses were honest but one can only tell and make such decisions when they actually have an offspring. Certain circumstances can alter a person's thinking very quickly. 

                                                                             

9. Rastafarianism

 The question was asked whether or not a person is considered fake if they did not adhere to the Rastafarian ideology and philosophy. 

The majority said that they did not identify with the faith but they simply loved the hairstyle. As one person said, "you can be a fan of dreadlocks but not a Rastafarian." Many do not know that dreadlocks did not originate from the Rastafarians in Jamaican but it is considered the most popular of the other origins. That is why it is important to understand where something came from. That way, the decisions we make and the manner in which we make it can affect several aspects of our lives. Making wiser decisions begins with knowing the history first. 

It is definitely a different journey if someone is locking their hair just for the style of it. Another person said that they were not plugged into the deeper meaning of Rastafarianism back then but they now identify with bits of the messages of the Rastafarian philosophy. Note that this person no longer has ras but they still can identify with some aspects of the faith. 

                                                               

 10. Is Ras Natural Hair?

I intentionally asked this question because of the negative label that ras has in almost every sector of society. 

Natural hair is hair that grows out of your own roots. Dreadlocks is natural hair. It is just natural in a different form. It is loc'd. As long as the hair is rooted in your scalp then it is natural hair.

A female stated that, "the definition of natural is not made or caused by mankind. We just don't untangle our hair. Before combs and brushes were invented to untangle the hair, what did we use? Our hands and water." This statement brought back memories from part 1 of this series. Maybe in ancient times, people did not have tools and many techniques to style their hair so they just allowed for it to grow in a matted form. 

Another said that ras is real although some people use weave to begin their journey into locking. When their hair reaches a certain length they remove the weave. This is an alternative that I have heard of before. It might not be a popular choice but it is a choice that some have considered and done. 

One individual made a valid point as to why the notion that ras is unnatural needs to be debunked. Dreadlocks, as they stated, is natural. There are different techniques to keep them looking well-groomed. "If I were to leave my hair to grow without touching it, it would eventually become tangled and the dreading process will begin on its own, naturally." Very valid statement. No manipulation, heat or touching of our hair for a few weeks can start tangling, resulting in locking and the dreadful ras will begin. 

                                         

                               

11. Ras vs. Relaxed Hair- Which is Harder to Maintain?

This section was really interesting. It was a tie between ras and relaxed hair. For those who said ras they declared that it was the "usual suspects." Another said that in the professional world locs has a negative label. To them, it is labelled to be a hairstyle that is not maintained and smells. Also, just untidy. Many people also believe that it does not get washed. Another had a similar response to the aforementioned one. Their reasoning however depended on who you asked. "Institutionally ras still has a negative label. And so people with ras in the corporate, professional, societal context continue to suffer from the racist, discriminatory markings from the colonial, imperial era of our history."
Another view that suggested that ras got a negative reputation also claimed that people tend to assume that having locs is dirty and unsanitary and its often associated with criminal behaviour. It is disheartening that someone will be targeted just because they choose to wear their hair differently from the rest. 

Contrarily, those who said that relaxed hair got a bad reputation said so because of their own personal experiences with relaxed hair. All of the comments described the pressures of constantly having to put relaxer in. Some people have appointments at salons every 2-3 weeks. Wow... That's a lot of times per year to relax. The people who stated relaxed hair also suggest that it was harder to maintain as opposed to ras. Interesting and honest perspectives made this series even more relatable and needed. We need to hear other peoples' stories so that we can try to resist the prejudicial, discriminatory so-called logics we have planted in our minds.  Learning about other peoples' points of view can reshape our idea of what is acceptable and what is not. We can then reimagine the world differently and try to be more inclusive. Yes, this seems like an ideal world which does not exist but the only ones keeping us back from its existence is us.

Stay loc'd in for Part 3 of this series. 

DreadFul Perspectives: Part 1 (Dreadlocking Knowledge)

                                                                                                      EnRooted

                            

          In this Three-Part Series the words Dreadlocks, Dreads, Locks, Locs and Ras will be used interchangeably.


According to the website Knattydread.com, "Dreadlocks are more than a hairstyle, the roots of the most amazing locs are in your mind!" How Dreadlocks Work: Dreadlocks in history


Now, you might be wondering what does your mind have to do with growing locs. Well, just like anything that we do, we all question whether or not it is the right thing for us, the timing, environment and in some cases, if those around us will like and accept our decisions. 

Many who are considering locking their hair ask themselves a series of questions and some on the flip side just start the locking process. 

However, with everything existing in this world, there is always a history behind it. 

The locking of one's hair has a long history despite many not knowing exacting where it really originated from. This locking of hair has transcended across cultures and societies and today, it has a place in mainstream settings. 

Depending on who you ask, the origins of dreadlocks will have a different meaning to different people at different periods. 

Where did the Word Dreadlocks Come From?

The name "Dreadlocks" does not have a clear origin. Some authors suggest that the first half of the name; dreads may have ties with the British soldiers who encountered the Mau Mau fighters who had the hairstyle. Another origin is that of Jamaican Rastafarians who see themselves as instilling fear in the hearts of non-believers (Dreadlocks).  

In the article, "Dreadlocks in history" Author Matt Sailor stated that naturally once the hair is not combed and groomed for long periods, it will most likely result in matting. To Sailor, this might have been the reason why most prehistoric people wore their hair in styles similar to dreadlocks. There were not any inventions such as combs or other styling tools to prevent the hair from matting during that period in history (How Dreadlocks Work: Dreadlocks in history).

The Minoan Civilisation (Europes earliest civilisation) depicts frescoes- a technique of mural paintings executed upon freshly-laid lime plaster, of dreadlocks as far back as 3600 years (Dreadlocks).

Another example comes from ancient Egypt where several examples on bas-relief, statuary and artefacts displayed Egyptians wearing locked hairstyles and wigs. Other archaeological evidence found on archaeological sites proved that ancient Egyptians with locked hair and wigs have also been discovered (Dreadlocks).

Other evidence was from people in the Near East, Asia Minor, Caucasus, East Mediterranean and North Africa such as the Sumerians, Elamites and ancient Egyptians during the Bronze and Iron Age. There were many artistic depictions of these people wearing their hair in plaits or braids and beards. However, there must be a clear distinction because plaits and locks are two different hairstyles and it is difficult to insinuate which style the aforementioned peoples wore (Dreadlocks).

Dreadlocks have been discovered on mummies in Peru, dating back some time to A. D. 200 and A.D. 600 (Sailor). 
Other evidence comes from Aztec priests who seemed to have worn their hair in matted styles during the 14th and 15th centuries (How Dreadlocks Work: Dreadlocks in history). 

Over time, many cultures and societies have used locks for various reasons. Some include religious ritualisms, ceremonial proceedings and others were just a part of the everyday cultural norms. 

Locks were worn in many African ethnic groups and their significance varied according to the ethnic group. Massai warriors were famous for their long, thin red locks which they dyed using red ochre. Kikuyu had coiled hair. Some children in Nigeria are born with naturally locked hair and are referred to as Dada which is a Yoruban word (Dreadlocks).

Indigenous Australians from North West and North Central Australia have worn their hair in locks. Some even accompanied their locks with long beards which were at times loosely or tightly locked as well.  In North Central Australia, the formation of locks was done by greasing with fat and coating with red ochre which is similar to the Massai warriors of Africa (Dreadlocks).

The earliest evidence of dreadlocks came from Hindu Vedic scriptures. Locks are worn in India by Sadhus also known as holy men. The Nagas are ascetic and followers of the god Shiva. Their name for locks is Jaata- twisted locks of hair and they wear it above their heads and only let it down for special occasions and rituals. Indian holy men and women regard locks as sacred. It is considered to be a religious practice and an expression for their disregard of vanity (Dreadlocks).

Tibetan Buddhism and other forms of Buddhism have occasionally substituted the dreadlocks for a more traditional shaved hair. The most recognisable of these groups are the Ngagpas of Tibet. For these Buddhist, their locked hair is not only a symbol of vows but an embodiment of the particular powers they are sworn to carry. For example, some practitioners of particular ceremonies should arrange their pile up hair as a signage of the ceremonial protocol (Dreadlocks).

Jamaican Rastafarians is considered one of the most recognisable group to wear dreads. The Rastafari movement began in the 1930s in Jamaica. A small sect believed that Haile Selassie I, who became emperor of Ethiopia in 1930 was the Messiah. The Rastafari movement locks are symbolic to the Lion of Judah which is depicted on the Ethiopian flag (How Dreadlocks Work: Dreadlocks in history). 

Rastas see themselves in a way to stay as pure in nature to the likeness of God. They utilise the biblical story of Samson as justification to never cut their hair. Rastas allow their ras to grow freeform. This allows the hair to grow at different lengths and even combine together to form larger matted clumps (How Dreadlocks Work: Dreadlocks in history).

Other belief systems of the Rastarafi are that Africa is a paradise and the West is a place full of captivity. Thus, a way of celebrating ethnic pride is by freeing the hair from the European ideals of beauty. In the early days of the movement, Rastas faced prosecution and imprisonment, just like the Shouter Baptist in Trinidad, for their religion and hairstyle. 

Today, thanks to Bob Marley-Jamaican Reggae singer and songwriter and an activist of the Rastafarian movement and philosophy, the movement has become more widely accepted.  Almost every aspect from sports to actors and actresses, singers of different genres of music also wear ras today. Despite there being numerous rolled eyes and questions about the movement, the hairstyle and all that comes with it, ras has come a long way and still has a long way to go. 

The story is told of a young man who appeared on the Ellen Degeneres talk show who could not attend school because his hair did not follow the school's rules and regulations. The said young man was a final year student at a high school in the United States of America. He claimed to have roots in Trinidad as his dad was born in Trinidad. To him, wearing ras meant accepting and living out a part of his culture and heritage in the most simplistic way possible. If he did not cut his ras he would either face in-school suspension or an alternative school for children with behavioural issues (Ellen Degeneres surprises black teen told to cut dreadlocks with $20,000 scholarship). 

Stories like the one mentioned above will continue to unfold because there is still underlying negative implications towards ras and ras relations. 

There was also a story of a 12-year-old girl in Trinidad and Tobago who was also denied entry into her school because of her ras. The Principal of the school stated that the girl's hairstyle was against the school's rules and policies. Section 4 (g) of the Constitution fo Trinidad and Tobago however provides grounds and provisions for human rights. One such right is the right to "freedom and conscience religious beliefs and observance." Denying a child entry into a school that she sat a test and passed for is beyond disbelief and it just goes to shows how far we have to go as a nation (Girl thrown out of school over dreadlocks). 

Stay tuned for Part 2. (Dreadfully Beautiful).