As a Black mom to Black girls, caring for their hair is more than just a routine—it’s a tradition, a bond, and an act of love. Our hair carries history, culture, and beauty, and it’s my responsibility to ensure my daughters grow up knowing that their hair is worthy of love and care. I want them to see their curls, coils, and kinks as a crown, not something to “fix” or “manage,” but something to celebrate.
Growing up in Canada, access to the right products, salons, and knowledge about Black hair care wasn’t always easy. I remember the struggle of trying to find the right products, the frustration of not knowing how to properly moisturize or style my hair, and the feeling of being left out when mainstream beauty spaces didn’t cater to us. But today, things are changing. The Black hair care industry in Canada is finally growing, and we now have more resources, products, and representation that affirm the beauty of our hair.
The Cultural Impact of Accessible Hair Care
The accessibility of Black hair care isn’t just about convenience—it’s about identity, self-expression, and empowerment. For so long, our hair was misunderstood, stigmatized, or even policed. But when we have the right tools, products, and education to care for our hair, we reclaim our narratives and embrace our heritage.
This shift matters, especially during Black History Month, when we honor the resilience, creativity, and achievements of Black communities. Our hair tells a story of resistance—how our ancestors braided maps into cornrows for escape routes, how afros became a symbol of power in the civil rights movement, and how protective styles continue to be a form of self-care and cultural pride.
In her 2018 Black History Month message, former MP Celina Caesar-Chavannes emphasized the importance of representation and self-acceptance. She addressed Black women, stating, “I love you and #ISeeYou.” She highlighted the significance of embracing our unique features, including our hair, and challenged societal norms that often marginalize Black beauty.
Now, as a Black Canadian mom, I get to raise my daughters in a time where they can see their beauty reflected in the world around them. I can walk into a store and find products made specifically for their textures. I can teach them how to properly care for their hair with products that celebrate their natural beauty instead of trying to change it. That representation and access mean everything.
Passing Down the Legacy
Every wash day, every detangling session, every twist-out or protective style is a moment of connection, a lesson in patience, and a reminder that our hair is beautiful just the way it is. It’s an act of self-love and a continuation of a legacy that started long before us.
Black hair is not just about beauty—it’s about history, identity, and empowerment. And as a Black mom, I will always show up for my girls, making sure they have the knowledge, love, and confidence to wear their crowns proudly.
Because when we love our hair, we love ourselves. And that is a legacy worth celebrating—this month and always.
Sandy Esprit 
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