Colleagues from our Race Equality Network are continuing to share their personal experiences as part of Black History Month to help increase understanding across SGN and the network areas we work.
Gloria Onuh, Technical Standards Specialist (South), has shared her story.
As a black woman, my hair has always been a central part of my identity.
Thick, textured, and full of character, it requires time, patience and care to keep it healthy and manageable.
I’ve been styling my own hair for as long as I can remember, and I know first-hand the dedication it takes, not only in effort and a little more love but also in cost. From specialised products to protective styles, maintaining black hair can be both expensive and time-consuming.
Alongside the practical challenges, there are also the social ones. Questions such as “Is that your real hair?” or “Can I touch it?” may be well-intentioned, but they can feel intrusive and exhausting.
For many of us, our hair is deeply personal. It’s not just about style, but about heritage, culture, and self-expression.
When I moved to the UK, I discovered new challenges in my hair journey. In the area where I live, salons that understand how to care for afro-textured hair are few and far between, and I know people who travel long distances just to have their hair done.
Even the environment plays a role. The hard water in the south where I live affects the condition of my hair, making care even more of a balancing act.
Still, no matter the challenges, I love my hair.
It’s not just about appearance: it’s my identity, my heritage, and my story. My hair tells the world where I come from, and I wouldn’t trade that for anything.
This Black History Month, I want to celebrate black hair in all its forms: natural, braided, locked, wigged, relaxed, or covered.
Whatever your style, whatever your journey, it tells a story of creativity, resilience, and identity.
To my fellow colleagues and sisters navigating your own hair journey, I see you, and I celebrate you.
You can read more about the history of black hair here.
