Django Unchained and Kugichagulia: A N.I.C.E. Perspective!

Given that today is the second day of Kwanzaa, and the principle of focus is Kugichagulia, which is to define ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves, I think that  a review of the new film Django is befitting here.  It is actually quite a complex film to discuss so I will begin with an analysis pertinent to N.I.C.E., which is how was the hair of the main Black/African  protagonists depicted and was it on point?  Well, if we begin with the opening scene, there is no other way to describe Jamie Fox's  (Django's) hair (see photo below) than "nappy."  It was beautifully kinky, wild, unkempt and exemplary of what one may expect that a slave would be going through from a hair vantage point.  It was symbolic of the situation that the slave was going through, which was devastating, while simultaneously indicating that one cannot truly be oppressed with his hair representing symbolic strength and growth in the midst of suffering and struggle.  Kerri Washington's (Broomhilda von Shaft's) hair was also beautifully natural in the film and seemingly neat and tamed, exemplifying a sense of strength, character and uniformity in the midst of devastating chaos in her life through deep, overriding oppression.  Her beauty remained apparent, no matter what was done to her, even in her seemingly "damsel in distress" state which surfaced as womanism as she rode off, saved by her man in the end, still with her dignity and natural tresses in tact.  Natural Is Cool Enough was clearly indicated in the film. 

As for the film on an overall basis, perhaps one will  walk away with mixed feelings and emotions and some questions, which may surface are as follows:
1. Was the level of blood and gore in the film necessary?
2.  Is it okay to leave the theater feeling empowered and validated as a result of seemingly justifiable revenge and what does that say about one's perspective regarding retaliation for unspeakable cruelty experienced by the slaves?
3.  Does it make more sense to have more animosity towards the Samuel Jackson character than the white perpetrators of atrocities against the slaves and was he ultimately redeemable or should he have been dealt with in the way that Django dealt with him?
4.  How should feelings be processed towards the Mistress and her ultimate fate?
5. Given the gun debate in the United States at this time, what is the ultimate conclusion regarding guns during that time, particularly in terms of self-defense and retaliation/revenge by the slaves?

The bottom line is that so as not to give-away any essentials of the film, I won't provide answers to the above questions.  However, I will say that the film may leave one thinking about these questions  and more, upon exiting the theater and for many hours after.  Usually, that is a sign that the film was thought provoking and intense and as a result possibly worthy of praise.  I do have to point out that Spike Lee, although he admits that he has not seen the film, indicates that he will not see it and that it is disrespectful to ancestors.  As one who feels that Spike Lee's perspective as a filmmaker is worthy of consideration, I take this to heart.  Perhaps an analysis of whether this film contributes to the legacy of the ancestors of Black/African American people is warranted which is what I will embark on in terms of my own thoughts.  How does this film ultimately reflect the experience of my ancestors?  It is a tough question, which may only be answered by assessing how you feel in the moment that the credits roll at the end of the film and you walk out.  Ask yourself do you feel redemption, betrayal, animosity, pride, shame, etc. and let your own perspective be your guide. Nevertheless, in terms of the character, Django, Kugichagulia (self-determination) was definitely exemplified. 
As for the hair of the protagonists, Django and Broomhilda, in the film, natural hair was definitely showcased, which is historically accurate and definitely showed that the film embraced the fact that Natural Is Cool Enough and that is N.I.C.E.!

In The Spirit of Umoja (UNITY), N.I.C.E. Salutes CMM!

On occasion, N.I.C.E. salutes a Naturalista, and does so today in the spirit of UMOJA (Unity) as is the first day of Kwanzaa.  Often times, we are led to believe that with natural hair/locks, one's appearance is not Professional.  Personally, I know this is not true because I have worn my locks as a President of my own firm, as a President of a Health Corporation, as Vice President of a Health Corporation, as a University Faculty member and in other roles as well.  It is clear to me that intelligence is in my mind and not in the locks of my hair.  To wear your hair as it grows out of your scalp, naturally, is not an indication of an inability to be wise, intelligent or "professional" or to share the knowledge that you have acquired intelligently, but perhaps an a way of showing your strength, based on your willingness to be a "naturalista" in the mainstream business world.  This is particularly true in terms of the world of finance where knowledge is somewhat esoteric and a certain "business" demeanor is essential.  Hence,  N.I.C.E. salutes Connie Morris-Moore in the spirit of Unity as explained below:

http://www.cmmfinancial.com/

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I have known Connie Morris-Moore (then Connie Morris) since grade school and as life would have it, our paths have not crossed in years.  Through Facebook, we reconnected and surprisingly and wonderfully, I was pleased to learn that we are both locked naturalistas!  As I reflect on the first day of Kwanzaa today, which is Unity (UMOJA), defined as striving for and maintaining unity in the family, community, nation and race, I find it befitting to discuss this connection that is exemplified through our hair.  As a professional, there is unity in seeing another sister wearing her locks with grace and courage while taking care of business.  As I look at Connie's website (indicated above), I feel pride in seeing her taking care of business with her locks flowing down her back.  As is is often said, a picture is worth a thousand words and indeed the one above is.  On her website,  Connie represents family (knowing that she is a mother), community (serving as a business person), nation (as a Black/African American woman with pride contributing to economic stability through entrepreneurism) and race ( as a Black/African American woman courageously being who she is with her hair flowing as it grows from her scalp...naturally).

So, Connie Morris-Moore, along with many other women of African descent, who have shown the courage to express that Natural Is Cool Enough, N.I.C.E., once again offers a salute, and this time has selected you,in the spirit of U.N.I.T.Y (UMOJA)!

Happy Kwanzaa to all! 

N.I.C.E. Natural is Cool Enough, Holiday Holy Grail Winner: Kawanda Foster!

Kawanda  Foster wrote:

"My holy grail natural hair product is organic virgin coconut oil. I use it in my hair as a sealant, as a moisturizer, and as a part of my deep conditioner concoction. It keeps my hair feeling soft & moisturized and gives it great shine. You can find it online or in the organic section of a grocery store. It costs between 8 to 10 dollars for a 16 ounce jar depending where you buy it from. Its great for natural hair because it helps your hair retain moisture. And it smells so good!"

...And therefore, she is the N.I.C. E., Natural Is Cool Enough, Holy Grail winner.  I have tried organic Virgin Coconut Oil on my locks, and I agree, it is wonderful.  The main result that I have found thus far is softening of my hair and of course a beautiful shine.  Thank you Kawanda, for sharing.   I will now add Shea Butter (my favorite) and Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, to my two natural hair "holy grails."   Thank you for contributing to our hair care knowledge as we celebrate the fact that Natural Is Cool Enough (N.I.C.E.)!

Natural Hair and Loss of a Job (The Rhonda Lee Story): Thoughts?

This morning, I was watching Soledad Obrien's show, Starting Point, at which time I learned about a woman named Rhonda Lee

Rhonda Lee is a Meteorologist who recently lost her job at KTBS TV in Shrevport, LA.  Ms. Lee has filed a discrimination suit because she says she was fired for violating a social media policy that she says was never communicated to her. Last month, Ms. Lee responded, on Facebook, to a viewer.  Here is the commentary that led to her being fired:

Viewer:

“the black lady that does the news is a very nice lady.the only thing is she needs to wear a wig or grow some more hair. im not sure if she is a cancer patient. but still its not something myself that i think looks good on tv. what about letting someone a male have waist long hair do the news.what about that (cq).”

Rhonda’s response –   “Hello Emmitt–I am the ‘black lady’ to which you are referring. I’m sorry you don’t like my ethnic hair. And no I don’t have cancer. I’m a non-smoking, 5’3, 121 lbs, 25 mile a week running, 37.5 year old woman, and I’m in perfectly healthy physical condition.

I am very proud of my African-American ancestry which includes my hair. For your edification: traditionally our hair doesn’t grow downward. It grows upward. Many Black women use strong straightening agents in order to achieve a more European grade of hair and that is their choice. However in my case I don’t find it necessary. I’m very proud of who I am and the standard of beauty I display. Women come in all shapes, sizes, nationalities, and levels of beauty. Showing little girls that being comfortable in the skin and HAIR God gave me is my contribution to society. Little girls (and boys for that matter) need to see that what you look like isn’t a reason to not achieve their goals.

“Conforming to one standard isn’t what being American is about and I hope you can embrace that.

“Thank you for your comment and have a great weekend and thank for watching.

Since the focus of her firing was the commentary on Facebook, rather than her actual hair, my question is what do you think about the content of her commentary above.  Do you agree or disagree with her response about why she has chosen to wear her hair naturally?

Also, below is an excellent piece on this issue that provides insight into other Black women in the media who have chosen to wear their hair naturally Black women, in general, who are naturalistas in the workplace http://sportyafros.com/hair/rhonda-lee-fired-her-responding-to-comments-about-her-natural-hair/

NPR/WLRN Tomorrow at 1:00!

  Prizes for the Natural Is Cool Enough "Holy Grail Hair Product"  Holiday Contest!

The Prize is a 16 oz. Tub of Shea Butter and BVLGARI Soap

Only 4 Days Left to Enter! Use the products for yourself or give them as a gift.  Shea Butter is wonderful for your hair (and body) and BVLGARI soap has a wonderful fragrance.

Share a one paragraph description of your "Holy Grail" natural hair product including:  1) how you use it and why,  2) where we can find it,  3) the cost and 4) why you think it is perfect for natural hair.  Your product must be 100% natural.  Your entry must be submitted by December 15, 2012.  The winner will be selected by N.I.C.E. on or around December 20 and will receive a
16 oz. tub of 100% Natural African Shea butter as a holiday gift for your natural tresses along with a lovely scented surprise (hint: BVLGARI)!  Submit your entry by commenting on this Post with your paragraph.
Note:  You must be a member of  N.IC.E. to participate.  So join today if you are not already a member and let's search for that Natural Hair "Holy Grail" for the Holiday Season!
For the Winner, your gift will be on the way...Good Luck!

Beyonce and Baby, Historically Natural!

Priorities change for new mothers and the focus becomes the baby.  Natural hair styles become a beautiful choice for easy hair care and a carefree untamed look.   Braids, whether from one's own natural hair or extensions are often the choice and go back to our early African roots. African women have used extensions, various types of braids and locks as styles for their adorning hair crowns throughout history.  For a very interesting history of African hair braiding, check out this website: http://www.ehow.com/about_5792009_history-african_american-hair-braiding.html


So Beyonce and her little Blue Ivy, with her natural curly tresses, are highlighted here as beautiful examples that Natural is Cool Enough (N.I.C.E.) for a new mothers.

BRAIDS AND LOCKS, HISTORICALLY NATURAL

 

Introducing the N.I.C.E. "Holy Grail" Hair Product Holiday Contest!

It is that time of year to spend extra time with loved ones, give and receive gifts and look our best for the holidays.  For Naturalistas the goal is to do so naturally.  Recently, I have been involved in conversations with naturalistas about transitioning to Natural Hair, what to do with their hair (before and after transitioning) and most importantly, what is the "holy grail" of hair products for Natural Hair?  As many of you know, from previous postings, my favorite product is Shea butter.  I use 100% natural shea butter from Africa as part of my natural hair regimen . Shea butter keeps my hair soft and provides that lustrous shine.  It is not the only item that I use but if I had to choose a "holy grail" of hair products, for moisture, condition and shine, for my natural locks, shea butter is my selection.  What's yours?

So, here is the contest announcement:

Share a one paragraph description of your "Holy Grail" natural hair product including:  1) how you use it and why,  2) where we can find it,  3) the cost and 4) why you think it is perfect for natural hair.  The key is that your product must be 100% natural.  Your entry must be submitted by December 15, 2012.  The winner will be selected by N.I.C.E. on or around December 20 and will receive a
16 oz. tub of 100% Natural African Shea butter as a holiday gift for your natural tresses along with a lovely scented surprise (hint: BVLGARI)!  Submit your entry by commenting on this Post with your paragraph.
Note:  You must be a member of  N.IC.E. to participate.  So join today if you are not already a member and let's search for that Natural Hair "Holy Grail" for the Holiday Season!
For the Winner, your gift will be on the way...Good Luck!