Dreadlocks, also known as dreads or locs, are a hairstyle characterized by rope-like strands of matted hair. This hairstyle has deep roots in various cultures around the world, but it holds particular significance for the Black community. For centuries, Black people have faced discrimination because of their natural hair texture. Dreadlocks, as a prominent and Afrocentric hairstyle, have become a symbol of cultural identity, self-expression, and resistance against Eurocentric beauty standards.
The origins of dreadlocks can be traced back to ancient times and various regions across the globe. Discoveries of early forms of dreadlocks have been found in India and Egypt.
Dreadlocks have also been associated with various religious and spiritual practices:
In ancient times, long hair often symbolized age and wisdom. Within Black culture, dreadlocks and similar styles like braids provided a way to grow hair downwards, as natural Afro hair tends to grow upwards. Dreadlocks were also believed to hold power by interlocking the hair's energy, enhancing mental and physical strength.
The association between dreadlocks and marijuana can be traced back to Ras Tafari, an Indian man who founded the Rastafari movement. Ras Tafari, who sported long dreads, inspired many Black Jamaicans to follow his religious and cultural practices. He was crowned emperor of Ethiopia in 1930 and soon later was forced into exile for wrongdoings. His supporters refused to cut their hair until Ras Tafari was free. Ras Tafari also advocated for marijuana use, believing it cleared the mind and promoted clear thinking. This connection led to the association of dreadlocks with pro-marijuana culture, exemplified by iconic figures like Bob Marley.
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Today, dreadlocks carry a range of meanings and motivations. While they may not hold the same spiritual beliefs as in ancient times, they continue to represent cultural heritage and ancestral connections.
Many Black individuals choose dreadlocks as a form of self-expression and a statement of uniqueness. Dreads have become popular among youth as a way to challenge conventional norms and societal expectations.
Dreadlocks have also become a symbol of rebellion against societal standards, particularly in the corporate world, where they are often viewed as unprofessional or unconventional. The style gained traction through influential musicians and artists who defied mainstream expectations.
Despite historical biases, dreadlocks are gradually gaining acceptance in corporate America and other professional settings, while still maintaining their cultural significance.
The use of dreadlocks by non-Black people is often cited as an example of cultural appropriation. Given the history of the hairstyle’s widespread origins, dreadlocks cannot be said to belong to one specific culture. However, given the close association of the hairstyle with Black culture and history in the United States, some advocates believe that when white Americans wear dreadlocks, it is a form of cultural appropriation-defined as when members of a majority group adopt cultural elements of a minority group in a way that is exploitative, disrespectful, or stereotypical. White people who style their hair in dreadlocks or other Black hairstyles are thus often criticized for cultural appropriation, as in the notable cases of pop stars Justin Bieber and Miley Cyrus and actor and model Bo Derek. In addition, some have criticized white wearers of dreadlocks, arguing that it illustrates white privilege, because white dreadlocks wearers do not face the same discrimination as Black people who adopt the hairstyle.
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Because dreadlocks have been regarded by some, particularly those animated by anti-Black racism, as dirty, unkempt, or unprofessional, people who wear them have faced discrimination in the workplace and at schools. According to the Legal Defense Fund, policies have been used to “justify the removal of Black children from classrooms, and Black adults from their employment” in the United States. In 2019 the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Coalition was founded to end race-based hair discrimination in the United States.
Dreadlocks can be formed through various methods, including:
Dreadlocks were once believed to be the most natural and healthy hairstyle for people of color. With thick, coarse hair, the hair will naturally begin to lock together if left unpicked or uncombed. Dreadlocks are natural, and achieving long strands of hair requires minimal manipulation. Dreadlocks can be a low-maintenance hairstyle that retains moisture, promoting hair health.
Maintaining healthy dreadlocks involves:
The natural hair movement has played a significant role in challenging beauty standards and promoting self-acceptance within the Black community.
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Millennials and Gen Z are reclaiming the narrative surrounding Black hair, and there is growing recognition and appreciation for natural hairstyles.
The natural hair movement aims to dismantle oppressive notions and promote a more just and inclusive world for future generations.
In 2019 the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Coalition was founded to end race-based hair discrimination in the United States. The CROWN Act was created later that year by the coalition and cosmetics company Dove, in partnership with California state Sen. Holly J. Mitchell. Since then, 24 states and 40 localities have passed the act, which prohibits discrimination based on an individual’s texture or style of hair.
Dreadlocks have been worn for various reasons in many cultures and ethnic groups around the world throughout history.
Dreadlocks have been sported by numerous influential figures across various fields:
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