A Natural Is Cool Enough Experience with the Beautiful Kuna Yala People

Recently, I took a trip to an amazing place, Nia Nub, which is one of the San Blas Islands.  Getting there was quite a journey, which entailed flying to Panama City, Panama, then taking a small plane to an island, followed by a 1 hr. +  dug out canoe ride to the destination island, Nia Dub.  On this island the indigenous people, the Kuna Yala, are living as they have, with some changes based on visits there by individuals and groups such as Missionaries, Researches, Peace Corp members and others, of which some appreciate their way of life and others want to "help" them although it is my perspective that the way of life of the Kuna Yala, must be valued and appreciated as it is, and would help to educate many, in our modern, technological approach to life, about the true essence of rewarding, day to day, meaningful experiences, if understood by visitors.

So why is this relevant to N.I.C.E.?  Simply because as I was there, one of the many things that I realized was that maintaining my natural hair became a matter of very little concern and there was an ease about it that I don't think I've ever experienced before.  I felt at all times, while there, that to have my hair in any way but natural, on this island, with the beautiful people there, would have been counter to who they are because every aspect of their lives embraces who they really are:  the Kuna Yala people.

So below, are pictures of my initial journey:  the flight, the dugout canoe and arrival at the island, Nia Dub.

The Driver of the Dugout Canoe

How the Dugout Canoes are made...

The dock where our dugout canoe is heading...

Once I arrived, I instantly felt like I had gone back in time as I looked at the beautiful, indigenous brown people with dark hair, short stature and thin builds, for the most part.

Enjoying a moment with a Kuna Yala woman

 There was a warm and gracious feeling of welcome as they looked at me, and I at them, knowing that I was about to have an experience of a lifetime as their guest.  Soon after my arrival, I met the family that I would stay with, in their hut, where my bedding would be a hammock and the floor comprised of dirt.  I was ready for this...to essentially let go of all of the modern comforts of my life and to live without the amenities, including technologically,  that I have grown so accustomed to.  My napsack, shoulder bag and one small piece of luggage were filled with all that I thought I would need, including t-shirts, wrap skirts, flip flops, sneakers, bug spray, a first aid kit, herbal remedies (in case I experienced any kind of illness) and healthy snacks that I love (dried vegetable chips, dried apricots, raisins, nuts, etc.) in case I found myself hungry at inopportune times, my hammock and of course, my camera.

Grandmother of my host family hanging my hammock

Helping ro ready an area in the center of the village where visitors gather

After helping my colleagues set up the central location which would be our gathering space, I was off to my "home" for the week with my new "family" where they assisted me with my bags, hung my hammock and began to get to know me through initially awkward but friendly conversation.  They speak their language, Tule, with just two people in their family that speak Spanish (the teenage daughter and her father) and I  speak English primarily with some Spanish.  I realized that communication would be challenging and interesting so my plan was to smile a lot so they would be assured that I was both kind and friendly.

I truly looked at this beautiful family that I was about to live with very briefly, which consists first of the grandfather and grandmother, and appreciated deeply, their way of life.  The grandmother is clearly in charge of the entire house based on her demeanor and her take charge status in terms of my being a guest and her direction of the movement of everyone in the house.  When she was present, everyone seemed ready to follow her direction. She was dressed in traditional attire at all times and immediately proceeded to hang my hammock (see picture above) and sweep the dirt floor (see picture below) with a broom that consisted of leaves from the trees and branches.  Since they are matri-local, her son-in-law had moved into her home where her daughter lives.  The daughter and her husband have three children including a baby boy, who was not yet walking, and is nursed by his mother  frequently, a teenage daughter and teenage son, all who live in the hut.  The grandmother's husband also lives in the home, and is a Curandero (natural healer) and is well-known on the island for his services.  Hence, the family that I was staying with was a family of status.

The grandmother sweeping the floor and tidying up for my stay with the family

The teenage daughter of the family with the baby and a girl who is visiting from another hut.  The man is her grandfather who is a Curandero (healer) on the island

As I settled in, I realized that some of my normal concerns, such as the upkeep of my locks,  became less precious to me although I felt proud of the natural state of my hair. Imagine if I had a weave or perm or some other aspect of myself that was fake while residing with these people. I think I would have felt ridiculous as everything about them was authentic.  I realized that my natural hair harmonized with the notion that every aspect of the lives of the Kuna Yala people was connected to the earth, the water and what is truly natural.  As exhibited in the picture directly above, although missionaries come to their village and bring dolls with blonde hair to the little girls that look nothing like them and that do not reflect their culture, they remain true to their cultural norms in their appearance.  It was fun to spend a bit of time in a photo shoot with them in their traditional attire relating to and embracing their culture that is absolutely close to nature and, which exemplifies that Natural Is Cool Enough.  It was an honor and a privilege to have the experience of a glimpse into their lives.

My wearing of traditional dress for a photo with them.  Kuna Yala people, generally, do not smile in photos.

Feeling good in knowing that on Nia Dub with the Kuna Yala, Natural Is Cool Enough

N.I.C.E. Announces a Fantastic Art Exhibit!

 The Gala Opening!

When: February 17; Where: The University of Miami, College of Arts and Sciences Gallery; Time: 5:00 to 8:00 P.M.

The "Holy Grail" Natural Hair Product: Found!

Yesterday, we had a wonderful gathering of naturalistas at our monthly University, Natural Is Cool Enough Meeting.

 The conversation was lively, positive, introspective and significant as we realized that wearing our hair natural is not just about a style but a level of consciousness.  We talked about the journey of transitioning from what society expects of us as Black women, in terms of our hair, by using words like "professional" and "polished" and other terms that imply that if our hair is not straight, we are not considered to be in those categories and we concluded that we don't buy that perspective at all.  There is nothing unprofessional or unpolished about wearing your hair naturally as well as letting it be free and untamed.  You can't tame natural hair and why would you?  The beauty of it is that it is representative of who you really are.

But, our primary purpose for meeting yesterday was really about product.  What natural hair product is best to keep your natural tresses moisturized, healthy and naturally beautiful?  N.I.C.E. had a contest recently, to identify the "Holy Grail" of natural hair products and it just so happens that the N.I.C.E. winner came to the same conclusion that was the common denominator for all of us in our meeting.  So here is the list from our meeting at at the end, the holy grail reveal.  Do you agree?  If not, tell us about yours as we continue the quest of knowing and believing that without a doubt, natural is cool enough!

Products that were mentioned in discussion:
Knot Today
100 % African Shea Butter
Olive oil mixed with lavender oil
Essential oils to add fragrance to shea butter:  jasmine lavender peppermint
Flaxseed oil to make gel
Organics Coconut Conditioner

Kinky Curly Custard
Morrocan oil
Jamaican black castor oil

The Holy Grail Natural Hair Product Revealed:  Virgin, Organic Coconut Oil!  Kawanda Foster, the Winner of the N.I.C.E. Holiday Contest suggested the brand below, which is great, and  we also concluded that as long as it is organic, you should be fine and don't hesitate to get it in the "cooking" section because it is cheaper than if you buy it in the hair products section.  It is also great to use as a moisturizer for your entire body.

Kawanda Foster, Winner of the N.I.C.E. Holiday Natural "Holy Grail" Hair Product Contest

Tourists and Braided Styles on Caribbean Beaches: What does it mean?

Recently,  I took a trip to the beautiful location, Punta Cana, of the Dominican Republic.  It was truly a relaxing, ideal environment for a lovely vacation break with my husband.  As I strolled the beach at our resort, I noted, as I have often noticed at other resorts in the Caribbean, that European women (both American and from abroad) were getting their hair braided and adorned with beads on the beach by Black Dominican women.  This always strikes me as interesting because my question is why?  Natural hairstyles, including braid,s are becoming part of the mainstream at this time for Black women, but are generally not worn by women of European descent in America or abroad leisurely or in the work place in their non-vacation life.  So why are braids with beads embraced during resort vacations in the Caribbean?  The braiders are obviously trying to earn income from tourists.  So, I clearly understand why they offer this service but the question is what about those who get the braids?  Does this mean that there is an actualfondness for braids and beads that only surfaces while vacationing or what?  Seriously naturalistas/everyone,  I actually don't have an answer for this. It seems that what happens in the Caribbean, for some, stays in the Caribbean in terms of natural hair.  Any thoughts that you have will be enlightening!

Model Heads Advertising Braided Styles

Exampled One After Braiding

Example 2 After Braiding

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/

• 

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!