If you don't have the time to learn, it's likely that said 'appreciation' will probably not be appreciated.". Lora OBrien answered an Irish Pagan School Student Question about Irish Ancestry and Cultural Appropriation, in relation to Irish or Celtic Pagan Practice. This sort of appropriation is different from the remixing that Nick talks about in the comments on Davids post because all respect for the original meme is lost. Are braids Viking culture? Certainly not in Ireland, we are a people of immigration and emigration, it is in the very blood and bones of us. (Even the Greeks and Romans no slouches in the style department were intrigued.) "They are doing it to stand out from the crowd in their own context of life," she said. A history that I will never be able to grasp fully. ", Happy what would be Notting Hill Carnival my beloved London , A post shared by Adele (@adele) on Aug 30, 2020 at 3:17pm PDTAug 30, 2020 at 3:17pm PDT. In the 1970s, Black women repopularized cornrows as a style to reject the chemical relaxers that flooded the market. i think a larger issue at play here is that it would be seen as a step back for a white person to want to assimilate into a black culture. The Vikings' neighbours, the Celts had their own version of dreadlocks which they called elflocks, so the Vikings may well have shared this name, although there's no written record of what the Vikings would have called dreadlocks. These styles eventually became popular across Africa and Europe, where they remain popular today. Watch popular content from the following creators: kate (she/her)(@kateisfit), -(@sammiraysword), J U N E(@june_0ffiicial), amanda(@mandapxnda), CharmingstoneCreations(@charmingstonecreations), AmandaWoo(@amandawoolovesutoo), CharmingstoneCreations(@charmingstonecreations), Tillie . Published: May 18, 2017 10.54am EDT Want to write? Braid hairs history traces back to Africa and was brought to Europe by colonial explorers. i have been thinking that the celts used to be everywhere in britain; there are surely many of us who can validly claim celtic influence of some kind at some point within our past. In many African tribes, braided hairstyles were a unique way to identify each tribe. (Roberts assertion about sticky locks actually confirms the disgustingly unhygenic way in which Whites have to avoid grooming to generate locks whereas Blacks dont.) lora o'brien's opinion is not the only opinion; others will take the perspective that as long as you're being genuinely respectful of the culture you're basing your practice off, learning from reliable sources, & not turning around and profiting off of a distortion of their culture, you're fine. The Vikings' neighbours, the Celts had their own version of dreadlocks which they called elflocks, so the Vikings may well have shared this name, although there's no written record of what the Vikings would have called dreadlocks. Ill adjust , love doing these. Historians have uncovered Roman accounts stating that the Celts wore their hair like snakes and that several Germanic tribes and Vikings were known to wear dreadlocks. She told Insider appropriation happens if you show love and appreciation for parts of a culture, such as clothing, hairstyles, or accessories, but remain prejudiced against its people. "You are a product of Multicultural Britain, so it's not cultural appropriation. You're going to their shop and will appreciate their work. Saviano echoes the same statement regarding todays braided styles. this is ahistorical racist nonsense. Some of my (English) ancestors oppressed some of my (Irish/Scottish) ancestors. Jeffree Star is staying quiet while Shane Dawson's career lies in tatters. TikTok video from margaret mccarthy (@margaretgoose): "love doing these. If you come with love and respect, Jamaica has love for you!". On the other hand, if you learn, explore, and understand a . The braids that were found are not the same kind of braids we have today, but they were used by many different tribes throughout Africa. Monty told Insider she has seen a great deal of cultural appropriation of African hairstyles from European brands and individuals since then, claiming many styles and looks as their own. These spaces can be filled in with other hair extensions, such as beads or feathers. Also, check out the list of 1950 inventions. Did Celts have dreadlocks? In fact, I base my entire lifes work around connecting people authentically to this form of spiritual practice, regardless of who their family was or is Authentic Connection to Ireland is much more than just a business tagline for me! African culture I agree with Justin and the bigger picture. The braids were particularly popular among women who lived on plantations in the Caribbean. Below you can find a more detailed explanation about what are different types of braids. theyre not the same, thanks sis!! If you show love and appreciation for parts of a culture, such as clothing, hairstyles, or accessories, but remain prejudiced against its people, that's appropriation. The looped pattern goes on infinitely, which is thought to symbolise the eternity of life. Only 90% of the time. theyre not the same". The only difference is that its easier to see the damage because Caucasian hair is so light and thin. These people have been braiding their hair for centuries. These people have been braiding their hair for centuries. According to historians, the first braids were created by ancient Africans. This is about walking and working in Right Relationship, wherever possible, and always endeavouring to give more than you take to support and contribute. 2.4K Likes, 105 Comments. Otherwise, ride that good hair thing out. "Black culture has been used, abused, and rehashed for a white marketplace way before Adele's hair, Elvis's hip-shaking, and Eminem's lyrical flow.". to consider. This was cultural appropriation at work . So, just do your research and find out what you like. The braids became associated with royalty in other European countries as well, such as Germany and Russia. Gaelic Paganacht is not closed. Younger children would start practicing on each other and eventually learn the traditional styles. Its funny to me that some people tend to claim dreadlocks as their own culture, when the truth of the matter is, dreadlocks have been around for centuries in places and tribes all around the world, for various intents and purposes. ", So the UK lockdown is finally starting to lift from this weekend onwards. Braids are also found in other parts of the world, such as Asia and Europe. 'Out Of Many One People' is our nation's motto and we live it! I also justasking myself this same question this morning. Culture appropriation Vikings original sound - Kennemac. First off, thank you for your thoughtful question. So seeing a white person with dreadlocks apparently more easily gets read as someone taking from the black culture. My gut reaction when I see a white kid with dreadlocks is to roll my eyesthis kid is trying way too hard to be something hes not. These people have been braiding their hair for centuries. The best part about Celtic braids is that they are easy to make and can be worn on their own or combined with other types of braids. Cultural appropriation implies that you are stealing from a culture and claiming it as your own. Their popularity in Western culture has spread around the world and is now worn by men, women, and children alike. The Germans have long been known for their intricate braiding skills and their unique designs. These people have been braiding their hair for centuries. This could account for how and why the Greeks believed the Celts had snakes in their hair. France is right there and the French are partially descended from and identify strongly with the ancient Gauls. While many of us here take an interest and do our best to reconstruct it, the investigation and piecing together of ancient Celtic cultures is a scholarly task and one which remains incomplete. From clean lines to braids that are organic and messy. Almost all women, children, and most men in some way had their hair braided.. The Vikings' neighbours, the Celts had their own version of dreadlocks which they called elflocks, so the Vikings may well have shared this name, although there's no written record of what the Vikings would have called dreadlocks. If you are simply looking for a cosmetic switch, then feathered hair is the way to go. Are dreadlocks Celtic? It is uncertain whether Vikings wore braided hair, but it seems likely. Women and men of all ages are getting their hair braided on a day-to-day basis. .css-ze5eiw-SpanViews{-webkit-flex-shrink:0;-ms-flex-negative:0;flex-shrink:0;padding-right:12px;color:rgba(22, 24, 35, .75);}13.3K views|.css-15ooo5t-H4Link{font-family:ProximaNova,Arial,Tahoma,PingFangSC,sans-serif;font-weight:400;font-size:14px;line-height:20px;display:inline;color:rgba(22, 24, 35, .75);margin-left:12px;}.css-15ooo5t-H4Link a{color:rgba(22, 24, 35, .75);}, Luciloo (@theamazon__)s videos with A work of art by s_johnson_voiceovers - Stefan Johnson | TikTok. The knotless braid is a hairstyle that has roots in tribes of west Africa. There are four main types of cultural appropriation: 4 Exchange: This form is defined as a reciprocal exchange between two cultures that are approximately equal in terms of power and dominance. Natalie J Monty and her sister run an Instagram haircare page for Black and multiracial women and girls called @got.coils. Savs hair has been flourishing and mine.. well.. its doing aight I guess Natalie & Savannah , A post shared by Coily Haircare|Skincare|Style (@got.coils) on Jun 30, 2020 at 10:43am PDTJun 30, 2020 at 10:43am PDT. Bantu knots, Fulani braids, and cornrows are just some of the African hairstyles that have been around for centuries. What cultures can braid their hair? Cornrows or tight braids close to the scalp are not just a traditional North African hairstyle. If youre still interested in this topic, I have plenty of other interesting information about braids, so feel free to leave a comment and Ill respond quickly. ", "Braids are not just a style; this craft is a form of art," says Pace. People accept braids to look less perfect, chic, and more relaxed, says Saviano. (cont.). "The origin of braids can be traced back 5000 years in African culture to 3500 BCthey were very popular among women." Braids are not just a style; this craft is a form of art. Anyone who tells you that Celtic is a closed practice is ego tripping. On the other hand, if you learn, explore, and understand a different culture and then show that in a style that you've developed over time, that's appreciation. It was later adopted by European women, who brought the style to America and other parts of the world in the late 1800s and early 1900s. That was pre-celt), how many assume celts celebrated the solstices and equinoxes (nope, the lore only points to the four cross-quarter days), how many people use a Celtic Astrology (no such thing), how many people assume Cernunnos is Irish (nope, he's continental) etc. When it comes to Celtic paganism, you should make the effort to study and understand the cultures that the practices, ancient and modern, come from. I was talking with a few people about learning about celtic culture, and at first I was told to research more (totally understandable) but was later told its a closed practice. Question Irish Ancestry and Cultural Appropriation? | Cc: I meant like braids braids so | Cc: You know | original sound - N O P E. 21.8K Likes, 3.8K Comments. However, those of us who follow traditional gaelic paganchd/t are really tired of new age religions, wicca, pan-pagan approaches, etc., who like to borrow gaelic art, stories, lore, designs etc., as window dressing for their non-gaelic shit. so weve decided to further adopt our own. Braiding is traditionally a social art. You can even wear braided hair extensions if you want to switch up your look but dont have time for a new haircut! So go ahead and start you story with Celtic influences, don't be surprised in synchronicities start appearing in Magazines, Newspapers and Social Media relating to what your writing about, and mine your dreams for new ideas. In the U.S., braids became popular in the 1960s and 70s as African Americans started wearing their hair in its natural state, which was often worn in cornrows or box braids. The braids could be dyed in different colors, which would indicate the social status of the wearer. The oldest record of a plait comes from a braided statue known in academia as the Venus of Willendorf, thought to have been made between 25,000 and 30,000 BC. By Jacquelyn Francis Date November 17, 2015 Some of my earliest childhood memories are of my mom parting my hair with comb at the centre of my head before braiding my long black hair into two elbow-length plaits. Whether it be a day you just want your hair out of your face or a special event filled with elegance, the art of hair braiding has evolved beyond the original cultural ideas., Amongst African Americans, braids are go-to styles for women with natural textures, explains Sims. Second, when appropriated the symbols tend to lose any importance or context and just get swallowed up into our own ethno-centric view of what they *should* mean (how many times have you seen someone with a Chinese/Japanese tattoo who clearly doesnt speak the language?). What hairstyles were Celts? These women were known to wear these braids while they worked in their fields or while they were performing other duties. TikTok video from clare (@clearlyclose): "#stitch with @kelly.lauren #ancestralhealing #europeanamerican #irishamerican #nordic #celtic #decolonize". As for creative writing, you have to start with information you already have and build on that. I think more importantly are the reasons behind someone doing something. I can't find anything online about it being closed, but I also don't want to push their claim out of the way and practice a closed religion. But thanks to fashion magazines, Marc Jacobs fashion shows, and the Kardashians, these hairstyles that hold a cultural significance to black people have become quite popular with people outside of the black community over the years. The most relevant celtic braids cultural appropriation pages are listed below: Are braids a part of Celtic culture? Knotless braids were also popularized by celebrities like Alicia Keys and Michelle Obama, who wore them during their time in office. These groups were made up of people who lived in Namibia and Southern Africa. Braids are a staple in African culture, and they have been since the beginning. Its not my fault that I was born white. they said. Braids have been a part of European culture for centuries, but they developed as colonialism spread across Africa. Did the Celts wear dreadlocks? By now, youve probably heard of the term cultural appropriation, which is basically adoption an aspect of another culture and using it inappropriately or disrespectfully. TikTok video from Kennemac (@kennemac9): "#stitch with @Brittany Rose #greenscreen #cultureappropriation #vikings #blktiktokcommunity #fyp". This tradition of bonding was carried on for generations and quickly made its way across the world. He drew on that background when writing about Middle Earth. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. In the late 1700s, many British colonists were traveling to Africa to explore and trade with the locals. I understand that in Northern American context this is a bit different, since there has been a history of black slavery, and black resistance. "In a nutshell, people need to know whether they're respecting a culture or ripping them off," Rita said. They can be worn in a variety of styles and colors, and they are often worn for special occasions or as an everyday fashion accessory. If you went and learned all their techniques and then opened your own shop claiming it was your own, THAT would be cultural appropriation. "I think it all depends on intention," says . You've got Brittany in France; Cornwall in England; Wales; Scotland; Ireland and the Isle of Mann and that's just the most obvious locations. I do recommend keeping a dream journal to write down new words and phrases that pop into your head while your working on your story. Thanks for what you do, Im part way through your free course on Irish pagan practice and Im really appreciating your work and approach., Hi Chelsea, (I made sure they got a personal copy of this reply too!). Thank you for answering it. But what I can tell you is that they became an inevitable part of our culture. African culture Stay up to date with what you want to know. We Celts, working with the Saxons and the Franks, brought our modern culture to the rest of the world with fire and sword. Did Celtic people have dreadlocks? I have celtic heritage, I invite you to study, make use of and practice it. We invite you to consider the type of braid used, the intention behind the braid, and the cultural history of that particular braid. It can offend people when people do this without making it. Required fields are marked *. dreadlocks is something we had since the down of time, so a white man. Then repeat this process until all strands are woven together into one long braid (or cornrows). Rather than an angry "mob," Caribbean people flooded the comments telling her to ignore the backlash because what she was really doing was appreciating Jamaican culture, not appropriating it. However, there have been many other people than just Rastafarians wearing hair in a way similar to dreadlocks; in ancient Egypt, in India still today, and surprise: even in Europe the celts and vikings and some other people have worn their hair that way. At the end of our lunch discussion, I was convinced that its not ALWAYS wrong for white people to wear dreadlocks. [History Included]. Braid rage: is cultural appropriation harmless borrowing or a damaging act? Box braids are generally done using synthetic or human hair. When I said braids I obviously didn't mean like Celtic braids or you know French braids. Lora O'Brien answered an Irish Pagan School Student Question about Irish Ancestry and Cultural Appropriation, in relation to Irish or Celtic Pagan Practice. I would guess 90% of what you find on the internet claiming to be historic 'celtic' is a . Ignore them, it's not closed by anyone sensible. "If you're genuinely interested in showing appreciation, then do the work to understand it. If youre white and still need convincing that such styles are not for you, keep reading for a history lesson and some race-appropriate hairstyle recommendations. If your hair is too short, then speak to your hair . Braiding studios located in African American communities such as Harlem are the perfect example. If your hair is too short, then speak to your hair stylist about incorporating a hair piece to weave through your hair. If you show love and appreciation for parts of a culture, such as clothing, hairstyles, or accessories, but remain prejudiced against its people, that's appropriation. But Id really value your perspective on this, as its a big reason why Ive treaded very carefully in investigating this potential spiritual path. Don't know why you got downvoted. Braiding was and is a social art. Did the Celts have cornrows? The Importance of Hair Hair had a kind of magical symbolism, an indication of one's supernatural connections. I wouldnt get a Chinese character on my arm unless I could read and speak a little first. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 2023 Lora O'Brien Irish Author & Guide. The origin of braids can be traced back 5000 years in African culture to 3500 BCthey were very popular among women.. I'm sure it's all well-meaning, but it's also really clumsy. Adelaja said the context also matters in how things are worn. All of us coming home together to the heartbeat of the drums and this Mother Earth. Braided hair is an ancient Irish symbol of feminine power and luck. some of them have survived to this day (ireland, scotland, isle of man, wales, cornwall, brittany) while some have not (gaul). Is celtic a closed practice and would this be cultural appropriation? "A reminder to us all that even though life, as we know it, has changed we can still choose how we navigate our way through it.". Gaelic Paganacht is not closed. What I think is behind that is something my friend David raised on his blog earlier this week: Western appropriation/importation of cultural memes from other countries. That is hurtful to those who come across the actions of those individuals because it devalues their culture and turns it into something that is only valuable as an accessory.". Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. Cornrows and other protective styles have a cultural history rooted in oppression that white people who sport them will never understand. thats not to say its somehow equivalent to what indigenous people are going thru & have gone thru, but you should consider that these cultures still exist, & often face the risk of their cultural identity being eroded due to external pressure. Its the way African people identify themselves. A previous Savage X Fenty show in October 2020 was accused of cultural appropriation for including a song that offended some Muslim people. The Vikings' neighbours, the Celts had their own version of dreadlocks which they called elflocks, so the Vikings may well have shared this name, although there's no written record of what the Vikings would have called dreadlocks. original sound - Jeaux. I dont have that, I want that, so I am entitled to take that and do what I want with it. Immerse yourself as much as possible in the culture, and support them wherever you can. The most common type of braid is the three-strand braid, which is said to represent faith, hope, and love. Ill adjust ". He said this is a huge problem within the music and entertainment industries. Maybe this is a big question. "Adele appreciates and loves the culture. Nigella Miller is an NYC-based natural hair and grooming expert with over 13 years of experience. Ollie Millington / Getty Images. You don't have to erase other cultures from your wardrobe altogether, but maybe question how they got there in the first place. With the Instagram era, YouTube tutorials, runways, and popular music festivals, braids have evolved. The final product was then tied off with a piece of string or animal fur. Its natures way of telling us not to get those styles. Starting from ancient tribes, braids are still an important part of Mexican culture. A post shared by Stevie Thomas (@steviexthomas) on Apr 17, 2018 at 11:30pm PDTApr 17, 2018 at 11:30pm PDT. "This style is used for kinkier textures as a form of protective stylingnot just for fashion. What do Celtic braids mean? I highly support your stance. some people will say that because the actual pagan cultures that preceeded the modern ones "died out" a long time ago that makes it fine to do whatever with them (in some cases, such as with the gaulish culture which has no modern celtic inheritor, this is true). Women also wore their braids pinned to the head and also incorporated knots and buns in their hairstyles. If you wear dreads just to get attention or to fit into a crowd you want to hang out with thats lame. Im sure its all well-meaning, but its also really clumsy. Anyone can practice it. Or even black people for that matter? What braids are considered cultural appropriation? Did Celtic tribes lock their hair? The Ancient Celts Period. The braiding technique is simple and very similar to the way people braid hair on their heads. "At a time when the August tradition of carnival on the streets of Notting Hill was canceled, I saw it as a woman celebrating the carnival vibe with its freedom and vibrancy," she told Insider. Lets check it! Thomas told Insider the difference between taking advantage and appreciating a culture ultimately comes down to where your heart sits.