Akilah Davis, a 34-year-old race and culture reporter for North Carolina’s WTVD, made a powerful statement on Juneteenth last year by showcasing her natural hair on air for the first time.
For over a decade, Davis had concealed her natural hair under wigs or weaves, including the locs she began cultivating in December 2021.
In a heartfelt video package, Davis shared her journey to “hair freedom” with viewers, discussing her lifelong struggle to embrace her natural hair texture.
Raised with the notion that straight hair was preferable, Davis internalized these societal beauty standards, but the racial reckoning following George Floyd’s murder spurred her and many Black women to reclaim their natural hair as a form of liberation and self-expression.
Davis has explained that the decision to reveal her natural hair on television was not made lightly.
She described the emotional toll of concealing her true self daily, expressing relief at finally embracing her authentic identity.
Juneteenth, a day commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, felt fitting for Davis to embrace her natural hair fully, symbolizing her personal journey toward self-acceptance and empowerment.
In her segment, Davis declared her commitment to showcasing her natural hair moving forward, aiming to inspire women and girls struggling to embrace their roots.
The overwhelming response to her segment affirmed the importance of representation and empowerment, particularly for Black girls navigating societal beauty standards.
Davis concluded her segment standing proudly in her natural, shoulder-length locs, proclaiming the “hair freedom” she had long sought.
Reflecting on her experience, she expressed feelings of liberation, inspiration, and empowerment, emphasizing the power of embracing one’s true self.
As Davis continues to share her journey, she hopes to inspire others to embrace their natural beauty and challenge societal norms, paving the way for greater inclusivity and acceptance.
Through her courageous act, Davis embodies resilience and authenticity, empowering individuals to embrace their unique identities with pride and confidence.
