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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Hampton U chapter.

A note to all of those who play a role in a short-haired natural girls life.

To my guy friends who always have something to say,

Because I cut my hair isn’t an excuse for your commentary. I don’t care what you think. My short hair, whether I choose to cut it by choice or for a particular reason to help better my hair, does not give you a reason to down play me like I’m someone different. It doesn’t mean you start with all of these “baldie” jokes. The, “my son” or “you look like a little boy” comments are unnecessary and are perceived as words that are trying to knock me down and break my confidence. Please stop! Thanks in advance. I Am My Beauty. Not My Hair!

To my girlfriends,

Thank you for the endless words of encouragement, inspiration, and comfort. My dear friends who are the epitome of black beauty, growth, and upliftment. Y’all never say, nor let anything bring me down about my short natural hair. Although you guys are this way, there are many short-haired natural girls with so-called “friends” who aren’t supportive. You know what my message is. And for you short-haired natural girls out there who have “friends” that try to discourage, throw shade, make jokes, or side comments, tell them about themselves. They wish they had enough courage to cut their hair and still be BOMB! Your beauty rests solely on your mannerisms, confidence, and being your genuine self. Stay true to yourself girlie. Much love to my real ones and to the others…I Am My Beauty. Not My Hair!

To the rest of the men in the world,

 A lot of men express how much they dislike weaves/wigs or make-up, and how they love natural hair; but it doesn’t seem like y’all like short hair neither. I’m confused! My question to you guys is, “how natural are you willing to go?” This isn’t to all men out there, but to the ones who are turned off by us short-haired women. Ever since I cut my hair I’ve noticed the difference in how much a guy will talk to you with long hair vs. short hair. Not that I care too much…I just want to know, why? That’s all. To each their own, because you like what you like, right? I’m convinced that these specific guys are scared to talk to a short-haired black girl. I will let it be known that YES I do hold so much confidence and strength in my short hair. Y’all walk around saying “Wakanda Forever,” but did you really understand the true meaning and symbolism of the movie? I’m going to end with that…I Am My Beauty. Not My Hair!

Just a note to all,

Be careful what you say and how you say it. Please stop with the comments like, “short hair isn’t for everyone, but it looks good on you!” or even, “girls with short hair always…” I’m tired of it.

WE’RE TIRED OF IT ALL! FOR THE LAST TIME, I AM MY BEAUTY. NOT MY HAIR!

-Love Yanna XOXO

 

Shiyanna currently attends Hampton University as a sophomore Strategic Communications major with a Marketing minor. She is a very outgoing, energetic, caring individual who aspires to be a Public Relations Specialist, hoping to one day own her own public relations firm. On her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with friends and family, and shopping. Her favorite quote is “No weapon formed against me, shall prosper.” -Isaiah 54:17. For more information contact her at: shiyannar@gmail.com.
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Ania Cotton

Hampton U '18

Ania is a charismatic, outgoing, fun loving individual with aspirations of owning her own public relations firm. Her favorite shows are Spongebob, Regular Show, and Bob's Burgers, and she loves to eat. Ania graduated from Hampton University in May 2018 with her Bachelors of Arts in Strategic Communications with a minor in Spanish. Ania loves to talk and give advice to her friends and family; the motto that she lives by is to always be a blessing to others because you never know who may need it. To learn more about her, visit her website at www.anianicole.com.