Is my hair a privilege? || Semi free form locs

It was fascinating answering your #semifreeformlocs questions in a previous video, it really got me thinking about this idea of privilege and how I have the ability and opportunity to wear my hair as a choose. Is this something that is unique to me? Are locs a privilege depending on where you are in your life and in your profession? I would hope not -- but maybe I'm wrong. #dreadlocks #freeformlocs
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Hi, I'm Hallease, a video producer and digital storyteller based in Texas. On this channel, I document my chaotic good life through vlogs, tutorials, and good vibes.
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[@kxlot79]

Having locs is definitely a privilege in America. The reality is that a Black person’s calling can be in extremely conservative fields, which have historically snubbed “Black” hair and preferred assimilated appearance. Depending on your social/economic mobility, the choice between wearing your hair as you wish AND maximizing your life choices is an INCREDIBLY difficult choice. When your family relies on you for financial support, the pressure to assimilate is 20x greater, because not doing so can be the difference between getting promoted or even getting hired- and many people will “whiten” their presentation as an attempt to buffer any perceived retardation to their commercial success. I think that exceptional people, no matter their field, have a lot more socioeconomic flexibility. I’m going to place Hallease and a lot of her audience (including myself ☺️) in this “exceptional” bracket. We get a LOT more leeway to write our own rules. NOT because the clients and bosses and coworkers we rub elbows with just love us/our work to bits- but *mostly* because they’ve made the concession that our appearance doesn’t trump our results. And at a certain point they begin to see us as actual people, and many prejudices, including hair/loc prejudice, slides off us individually. So of course non-conformists miss out on mainstream opportunity, but if you’re exceptional, you have a plethora of other options and opportunities coming down the pipeline- many of which will ultimately be naturally better fits. What makes a person exceptional is also a broad spectrum. Having a solid, supportive family and spouse to be a sort of safety net when Life tries to knock you down is, imho, quite exceptional in this day and age. People with such a social network can weather the unknown rejections of nonconformity. A certain spiritual resilience, to persevere off the beaten paths in the absence of instant fame/lottery style monetary success, is also a privilege.

[@hallease]

Yes, when I look at my life as a whole -- I've had pretty easy. Have there been set backs. Definitely, see any video from 2018 😰but as a whole I came from a complete family who weren't wealthy but did their best to offer me a strong foundation to "succeed" in life, in whatever way I decided to define it. And of course, as you all know, I have a great partner it is because of all of these things that I have the space to move (if only slightly) more freely and as you say, add a few more cards to my deck.

[@JubeiKibagamiFez]

I still believe it's a right, not a privilege. God made us all the way we are and no one has the right to tell us we have to be this way or that in order to be our best selves. It's every persons God given right to dress and look as they choose and giving that right up for "success" or what have you, is giving up a part of yourself.

[@simonewilliamson6766]

As a woman, who grew up Rasta, I take issue with the very idea of locs being a hairstyle. As far as I'm concerned it is the natural state of hair. It takes a great effort to do otherwise. I just don't understand this "hairstyle" viewpoint. And the natural state of my hair is as much a privilege as breathing.

[@hallease]

🌾🌾👀🌾🌾

[@cultivatingwellness4028]

Exactly. For Rastafarians locks is a powerful acclamation of who we are as Africans. It was or is NEVER about 'hairstyle' or 'privilege'or even gaining acceptance. Having locks is a natural, organic progression of not confirming to so -called Eurocentric standards. Locks is now commercialised by many and consumed as a fashion statement. 'Dreadlocks' is derogatory. So, Rastafari culture and lifestyle of wearing locks is not one for the 'moment' or a phase.

Simone Williamson mmh this ! Yes and breathing is definitely a privilege.

[@y-la-leopard-lady]

Exactly. Why should something that is natural be considered a privilege? I consider it a BIRTHRIGHT. It is our GOD-GIVEN RIGHT to walk in the world as the Creator made us.

[@melvincassii3359]

I think that what is often called 'privilege' is actually 'freedom from systemic disadvantage''. Good for you that you work in an industry that has a lower expectation of conformity and doesn't penalize you for how you deviate from the norm. Everyone needs that kind of social 'privilege', and when we get out there and make ourselves seen as genuine, relatable and unapologetically unique people, we make privilege for everyone. And I love playing Settlers, too.

[@hallease]

It's so much fun!

[@SartoriallyBlack]

YAASSS!!! Wigs and weaves are no longer my ministry either lol. I’ve worn them non-stop for 15 years and I choose to no longer do so. I’ve been loc’d for 28 days now and am LOVING IT! So liberating! I no longer care if my hair is ‘acceptable’ to society or an employer. I am not going to apologize for it, periodt. Either you accept me or not at all.

[@leelocd907]

Being 28 days locd will feel the same way as if your 7 months, trust me time flies and you’ll just look back and admire the old stages in their own little ways

[@blaclaquer]

PREACH🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@rozchristopherson648]

Sartorially Black HOORAY !!!! 😃👍

[@lillian7228]

👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@deanikiliagwu1595]

😍😍😍😍😍

[@JayAntoinette]

Having thick, healthy hair is a privilege in and of itself to me. I feel like the perceived permanency of locs is a part of what gives people pause. Also, like you said, not adhering to the white/eurocentric standard of beauty always seems to throw people off. Being unapologetic about something that is viewed apologetically will always cause a ripple.

[@k.burbank868]

JayAntoinette I agree sis♥️

[@Yonkiemo]

That kitchen solo moment? I just said aloud, "my goodness she's gorgeous." I felt like a super creep, but you did something. Had to let you know.

[@hallease]

Appreciate it! 🤎🤎

[@jake_a_g]

White male here. 🖐 I wear an "unusual" hairstyle and facial hair. (Faux hawk and variations on full beard, handlebar, beard stache, long beard) I work in a field where unusual or unique style is the norm. I compete with other professionals who have better style sense than me and I compensate by trying to look different. Fortunately each beard project is exciting to me and I have the privilege (,I guess) of not worrying about my business when I make these changes.

[@Ihiva89]

This concept makes me think of the bigger idea of locs being “presentable.” One thing I feel much of the loc community hasn’t really reconciled with is the fact that because locs deviate from the norm and because of their association with blackness, we often compensate their “nonconformity” with things like always needing a retwist, trying to disguise those roots and frizz, stressing about lint even though it’s an inevitable part of having locs and having black hair. Of course this isn’t everyone who is loc’d and in our society it is true that appearances are everything so these practices are in no way bad. But it’s interesting to look at why that is and who made it that way.

[@hallease]

Yes, I carried a lot of stigma into my first set of locs and focused alot on their aesthetics for just that reason. This set has been a noted deviation from that

[@traceywilliams8733]

I had locs for about 8 years and once my hot flashes took over I cut them off. That being said I felt my true self when I had them. Hot flashes are now under control and I'm starting my loc journey again. I can't wait until I'm fully loc'd, which for me takes about a year. Love your energy.

[@SawyerrsHouse]

Nice one. Just started my hot flushes although my locs were cut off way before I hit menopause.

[@2013lovemy]

Genuinely curious. What is it abut hot flashes and locs that can’t work? Is it that the locs also feel hot themselves?

[@traceywilliams8733]

@@2013lovemy For me my hair was really long past my mid-back and the locs were hot...

[@2013lovemy]

@@traceywilliams8733 wow, yeah I could imagine!

[@abaylor8670]

The music you selected is a vibe. Regarding the hair, I'm scared to wear my hair in all the styles I like because of all the attention it gets at work. I am typically the only one in the office. I let my hair live it's own life on the weekends. 🤫

[@naturallyamazing2197]

You are gorgeous!!! Love your hair💖💕 black hair in general is a blessing and beautiful and it's time we show the world. Some may say it's a privilege others not. I think it's an HONOR 👍👍🙏🏼

[@N.Jersey]

I feel privileged in having such sense of freedom and no concern for what anyone thinks...I'm 5 months in , went from 110 to about 60 locs, and im intentionally making my hair frizz and expand and i LOVE it. I realized ive always loved my big natural frizzy hair but in middle school i completely lost sight of that, and rather than mature enough to realize that i just kept doing what everyone else approved of with no regard to what i wanted...i felt freedom again with my big chop 10 years ago...but lost it again in search of the perfect twist out...i was apart of this natural movement, and though frizzy edges, puffs, and just throwing a scarf on my head didn't bother me, i still felt a need to please everyone...i had long, bra strap length 4a type hair and people always wanted me to sgow it off more, keep it styled, blow it out to show my length, but all the time and maintenance on that just wasn't me....so after marriage, 2 boys under 2, and wanting to enjoy all the new things in my life i basically stopped caring...i wore my hair tied up ( but not always the cute way) i knda gave up on myself cause i didnt want to take 8 hours to do my hair ( literally 8 hours) plus daily upkeep, but i didn't feel good about representing myself that way...then one day on a whim i thought about locs, it was a Wednesday, i researched and by that following Saturday i did my 2 strand twist...i got so many comments about "all that pretty hair" blah blah blah but i have never felt so pretty and comfortable and completely myself...it took a long time but i finally got back to me...puffy roots, frizzy fly aways and all and you can't tell me nothing, this is THE est hair decision i ever made...I'm privileged cause i get to walk in this confidence and certainty that my insecurities never allowed before...i work in an office, and my hair is not what anyone is used to but the office is pretty flexible about hair....but even if they weren't i truly believe they wouldn't bother...im a great worker and this hair come with the package

[@secundrabeasley855]

Yes, to the answer to your question. I was trying to grow my hair out into free form locks while also participating in something I was passionate about. My supervisor called them “Black Cheetos.” I left, did the big chop, now leaning to getting my hair locked again. Thank you for this video.

[@hallease]

😰😰😰😰😰

[@leelocd907]

Let this be a learning lesson to never let a ignorant fool call Beauty ugly

[@zoewolf7777]

Fall in love with yourself try staring in the mirror for at least 10 minutes and you will form this self love and a i dont care attitude

[@secundrabeasley855]

Wilfred: Thank You. Starting today. 💛

[@mynameispeaches]

With my first set of locs, I got compliments because they were small and I kept them twisted and manicured. People (black people) specifically made the point that they liked my locs because the looked like braids. Funny thing was, I personally did not prefer the twisted manicured look. I did it for "professional" reasons. Oddly enough all that twisting damaged my locs to the point that I eventually cut them off. So going natural yet attempting to conform still backfired. I work in the medical field and do not feel pressure to look any certain way. You can bark at the moon as long as you have the job qualifications. My current set of locs are free form and I absolutely love the way they are growing out. Fortunately times are changing. Probably not as quickly in the corporate world. I'm still waiting to see a black woman on the six o'clock news with dreads!

[@belmont2168]

I don’t know how I missed this video. “Ministry” love how you articulate and articulate language.

[@taniad9950]

I love having my locs. I'm unapologetically me and I'm so happy. It's a different kind of freedom and I love the skin that I'm in. Locs are organic, unique and don't look like everyone else's. I never thought that I would have locs but it suits me, who I am and I embrace it. With me having locs I just feel a different level of freedom and confidence that manifests from within and it simply radiates on the outside and people can see that. I get more dirty looks from my sisters but hey to each their own and I keep it moving. I will not apologize for the skin that I'm in or how I wear my hair. With having locs did I use to get nervous or anxious about job interviews? yes especially working in corporate america however I must be doing something right and I have divine protection around me because I am getting hired. If they don't hire me then it's their loss and devine intervention when I don't. 🙏🏾✊🏾🙌🏾

[@hallease]

*snap snap snap* amen

[@taniad9950]

@@hallease 😊 I love your energy 🧘🏾‍♀️

[@victorybeginsinthegarden]

your hair style is not a privilege your life style is

[@KarenDurantExperience]

Yes. The entirety of the lifestyle is a privilege. And that lifestyle includes being married - which "reads" as traditional effectively canceling out the dreadlocks.

[@KarenDurantExperience]

I have to rep for the "olds" a lot of us are children of the movement and were mos def not taught to assimilate. Many of us grew up natural and hair continues to be a political statement. Granted I'm from New York and my experiences with hair and culture may be different than most. I appreciate whatever style my fam wants to wear and fight for their right to do so. My feeling is region, financial circumstances, career goals, partners, family, religion also play a huge role in grooming, presentation, and expression of self. My hope is that we all get free however that may look ❤

[@mrh2821]

I had locs for 7 years and the only time I was concerned about how my employer would perceive them was in those early, akward months. I do think public perception is gradually changing about how black people wear our natural hair but locs is still stigmatized in a lot of places as either political or unkempt.

[@glamwithjaylyn]

I definitely feel the weight of being the only black person in the office! I wear braids often and I can’t even put them in a bun without someone saying something about it. I can’t imagine having dreads, and I would love to have some. I literally feel like I won’t be able to until I leave the work force. Being “approachably black” is such a topic.

[@ElisiasEvolution]

Thats a shame you feel that way, your hair is your natural right, to wear how you please!

[@glamwithjaylyn]

@@ElisiasEvolution I am happy to report I left my toxic job, I left that comment a few years ago and I’ve been released from the shackles of corporate America lol.

[@studid55]

Hey hallease, I just "found" your channel and I dig it. To answer the question of ur vid, I feel having locks is indeed a privlage... Not everyone is born with African blood :) ! At the time of this comment, people get mad if anyone but Africans grow dreads... Now, from a professional standpoint, my father was the first black registered engineer in Oklahoma. He told me this after I expressed anxiety about my year old freeforms (I'm in school for engineering rn) and showed him some of my work... "Boy, with work like this, you can get a job anywhere, even if those locs grow down to your ankles!" I'll never forget what he said! It was just a sigh of relief to hear that from him. Also, very inspiring! Thought someone would want to hear what he said to me, down here in the comments

[@hallease]

Love this!

[@lillian7228]

This is doooope! s/o to your dad for being an inspiration

[@peacheskong2245]

Title should have just been: Is my field of work a privilege? In your case a big yes. People in creative industry always have this advantage over the rest, being eccentric or having a distinctive look is okay and as you mentioned the tattoos, coloured hair is acceptable. At times I find that the more attention Black women get for ''their issues'' the more it backfires on individuals.... because now people think that the locks is a statement for every dark skinned woman, instead of looking at the individual as an individual you're now being judged from the pov of an entire movement that you may not even be part of..

[@Iamrosey21111]

Your locs are gorgeous!! No twisting, no products are freeing..but you have to be very secure!

[@jordilovesasn1230]

I’ve never thought of locs as a privilege. I’m an artist, dancer and a behavioral therapist (in training). It seems clear how those three fields call for a very different standard as far as hair goes. I’m natural and my go-to style is a puff/pineapple style. Up until recently I would wear my hair to my therapist job in a headwrap, in order to maintain my weekly wash/deep condition schedule. But they just created a new rule (that ironically only effected me) where no headwraps are allowed. In the dance and art world it’s a lot more accepting so pretty much anything goes... aside from Eurocentric styles like ballet. We were “required” to wear our hair in buns, as that is the only “appropriate” style for the dance. My hair don’t do that so they just had to deal with it lol 🙃 Awesome content as usual Hallease. Thank you for what you do.

[@KudukUngol]

That "no headwrap" rule makes no sense to me. If you were Muslim, would they deny you wearing a hijab?

[@ChloeRaeofSunshine]

Watching your videos is so COMFY! Also love that sweater!

[@hallease]

It's from Aerie!

[@terryceboxley1121]

women in my family have always frowned on locs in general. Its something that I don't understand, because these are the same folks who complain about having to maintain their hair too often for them to keep up with. When I present locs as a solution to their problem, they turn their noses up! It seems like they can't let go of our high-maintenance culture, even though they hate it. On top of that, they look down on locs as an unprofessional and even ugly way to wear black hair. We as black people really need to divest from the standards of beauty we're indoctrinated to strive for because it's making our lives way harder than they need to be. I think the world is changing, though, and locs are becoming more accepted in workplaces and social circles. This may be because of a weird fetishy thing, but I think we're beginning to see a shift in standards of beauty, especially as we are more able than ever to curate our media exposure through social media. Being free to do exactly what you want with your hair is a privilege, but I think that many times we don't allow ourselves to be as free as we can because we are trapped by cultural norms and the opinions of others.

[@myriamdhaiti2935]

I live in Montreal and the idea of locs preventing to have a career is almost nonexistent around me ( or maybe I just don't pay attention to this 😭) at the least. I am sure there is someone with a bad experience in my city but I, personally, never heard of it. Although I have heard of some of us thinking that it wasn't professional or thought that they would not be accepted but then again,no actual situations. A friend of mine cut his locs for acting but it was his decision alone. We put so much pressure on us of what is deemed acceptable sometimes, we forget that we shine no matter what's on our head. Locs are a privileged and a honour.💙

[@HN-kr1nf]

girl you are an inspiration to all people of colour love from a brown english girl xx

[@SwissMissss]

Locs changed my idea and definition of how I see myself, in regards to "beauty standards ". I'm privileged in the fact that I can look myself in the mirror and see the raw me every day, which was a luxury I didnt always feel I had before my locs. They unlocked my judgement of myself and ultimately how I seen others.

[@JubeiKibagamiFez]

How you wear you hair is a right, not a privilege. No one should be forced into a mold created by the rich and wealthy and the people who control this country. The concept of "assimilation" to keep this person or that person from judging you is a Slave Master's concept. The concept of assimilation is a concept of greed and control. You are beautiful any way you are, any way you want to be... Don't let a closed minded society tell you otherwise. Love yourself more than loving acceptance because you are not alone.

[@dubaisilkroute1882]

Well said,

[@JubeiKibagamiFez]

@@dubaisilkroute1882 Society be damned for trying to fit everyone into one mold.

[@mizzlynng]

My branches has transformed the way I think spiritually. To grow my hair w/o any manipulation has taught me patience and confidence within self. One year later and I couldn’t feel any better about my decision.

[@tigercadetsis]

Love that you and Joyce reference one another!

[@startoftheseason6995]

Beautiful hair! I agree with you on everything in this video! 💛

[@DirtyFastingLife]

Being who you are who we are should be a RIGHT not a Privilege ... privilege to me is like being giving allowance to do something... are we being allowed to be female or black?... not all we are just who we are. The crown act protects us from a federal level but we have to be confident enough to know we can be our natural selves without privilege or allowances. Blessings Queen great content!!

[@solshine757]

Your locs, music and message are 🔥

[@EssenceofGod5657]

I believe that having locs are a right...b/c we have a right to wear our hair anyway we like...it is just as important as “freedom of speech” or even the same because it is a freedom of expression (expressing our natural hair)...& like the right to bear arms or live where you wanna live or go where you wanna go or practice or not practice religion..etc & no one has the right to deny or control that RIGHT!thanks for bringing this subject to the forefront❤️✌🏾

[@MRISAIAHPOWEll]

Love this video and love your insight!

[@JPTyler]

Your locks are WONDERFUL! keep them, enjoy them and be who you are because we your fans enjoy your channel.

[@KarboneWolfoxide2]

Great video you educate me about locs point of view your locs are awesome.

[@JGriffin5150]

Your hair is beautiful. Black women have always been far more gorgeous in their natural hair. More black women need to find your channel for inspiration

[@brieoliver]

The growth! I'm always amazed with how long this second set has gotten. And I can see your point. For me, I've made the concerted effort to wear my hair how I'd like, which is definitely a privilege. Thus far, I've not had any issues in the workplace. For me, so long as its neat and clean, I try not to let other people's perceptions of my hair define me. That's easier said than done lol. But it's important for me to not be swayed by the perception of others.

[@rcampbell5137]

“But I didn’t want to have to work a lot for long hair” - PREACH!!

[@lifeinfinite2029]

I am so in love with your videos, it’s like from the jazz background to the ambiance you give off in your videos. It’s very soothing to me, I swear when I begin to share my journey and stories on KZbin, I hope to create this type of content. From your voice, to the background to the esthetics it is healing and so inspiring, each video bares another journey in itself 💋🇯🇲😍thank you for sharing

[@lillian7228]

CATAAAAANNNNN Your locs are beautiful. I'm one of those who was introduced to you from your previous loc journey and I love love love how healthy and full this set looks this time around. I'm absolutely in love with my locs, but sometimes I wrestle with the likelihood that in order to make moves in the career field I aspire to, I may need to start retwisting in order to "look neat", if I even get to keep my locs, that is 🙄 So I guess the privilege part is the career you have which allows such "unconventional" beauty. This is a really interesting topic and I dig your perspective. Thanks for another great video

[@michelephifer4858]

You are beautiful. Your spirit, your mindset & your unapologetic self love is where it is & has always been! Thank you for helping me help myself more. Privileged, of by nature course.

[@puzzlesjay]

I look at my locs not so much as a privilege, but of a letting go of the “fight!” To allow my hair to do what it was intended to do frees me of the battle to “tame” it, to “control it”, to “soften the look”, to “detangle.” My hair becomes who i am rather than something i have to “deal” with..

[@sweetiepie6740]

You make the locks look good!

[@e.williams13]

I love ur locs!!! I cant wait until mine are longet. Im semi free forming too..u are so beautiful. 😀and I hope blessings rain on you

[@hikeon8988]

You are so right! I see my locks as a way of having my hair, but not being a slave to my hair. I choose to invest my life minutes in other things. I love the beautiful wildness of my locs. Who would have thought my hair would be a gateway to multiple levels of freedom. ♥️🌞

[@speakingofmeesh]

When I graduated from college I was scared of wearing my hair out (I transitioned in college) and I talked to my mom about it. She told me I can wear my hair how ever I want. I was relieved yet still scared, but I have never had an issue; I also think my personality is warming and welcoming and possibly my environment of work no one has cared [at least no one has come to me and mentioned it]. I was nervous about my locs when I got them 7 months ago. But I feel so beautiful. The nervousness of "others" having a problem with my hair continued with my locs, but again no one has said anything to me. Thank you for these videos!!

[@Zizi3]

Not sure I feel like having locs is a privilege. But I mean it is a privilege to not have to comb/do my hair every morning. I guess I don’t have feel like the overall experience of having locs is a privilege because socially there’s just so much stigma that comes with having locs. It’s not really accepted by society.

[@SawyerrsHouse]

I wore my tree trunk freeform locs whilst I worked in the corporate environment here in the U.K. where I live. I know that corporate America differs to what's corporate here in the U.K.😁. If I must say, I was also bloody good at my job and believe that put me in good stead of not having anyone hassle me over my choice of hairstyle. I had also just ended an abusive marriage, so locing my hair was a sign of liberation😁. I'd go as far as changing my career to be able to wear my hair the way I want. I can't function if I'm stifled.

[@anapritchard9550]

Privilege Is a must because when you see locks you see ROOTS !! No one wears it better Than an African person 💕💕

[@seekingenlightenment2026]

Wow!! Compelling and necessary conversation for us to be having amongst ourselves. I think wearing our locked hair is revolutionary. I wouldn't call it a privilege under any circumstance because it does not bring any rewards enjoyed by the truly privileged ones in Western societies. When we are being analytical and revelatory (as we are here) about the challenges of being of African decent in the world, we realize that we live with the possible threat of unique and often unforeseeable vulnerabilities no matter how we work or live, or even the amount of melanin. So, we are the brave ones when we persist in choosing to be uncompromisingly who and what we are by nature. We are the risk takers, the survivalist, the ones who are not hiding out. We are the ones who see the tasks at hand, shoulder the anxieties and fear, and do it anyway; the ones who say "take me as I am, and if you won't, I will still be here until you have no choice but to change and evolve." No easy road; but true change in this world has always been initiated by those courageous enough to believe in the rightness of themselves.

[@lenaedyse9634]

I personally think dread locs are very beautiful and I love seeing them on people. I kind of live vicariously through you and your locs journey. Watching your videos of how you take care of your dreads, gives me ideas about what I can possibly incorporate or get rid of in my own hair regimen. I remember you saying something about when you picture yourself in your mind, you see yourself with dreads. I remember thinking...wow....she hit it right on the head! I do not wear dreads myself....and personally, I really do not see myself wearing dreads anytime in the future. When I see myself in my mind, I see my hair in long twists or in a wash and go. Dreads would be too expensive(because I know that I would pay to get them done) and permanent for me. God blessed you with a full head of lovely hair and the knowledge to take care of it. I personally think that is definitely one of the many privileges He has blessed you with!💖

[@kelendra]

" Im not going to try and cater to your western beauty standard" I LOVE this! I have been natural for the majority ( after peer pressure from my aunt and Grandma when I was younger I got my hair permed and shortly after realised it wasn't for me so I grew out the perm) so that statement really spoke to me.... Subscribed

[@AfrinaLilmissfreens]

I never thought of it as a privilege before.... I locked my hair when I went into personal training so I do have some freedom of how I portray myself. I also have tattoos!

[@ChloeRaeofSunshine]

Also I just wanted to say I'm happy your channel is getting more views! Your videos in total have almost hit 2 million views (My brother works in media so when I started making youtube videos I got all gun ho so I see youtube analytics appear next to everyone's videos) any who wanted to say congrats! I love your content. :D

[@hallease]

Haha look at you spitting out the analytics! Thank you!

[@fhirning1]

Yes Hallease! All of this... How are locks any different than braids? I think locs are becoming more accepted but freeform can be more of a challenge in certain work places. I transition to freeform on the down-low. I basically stopped combing my hair but still pinned it into several medium buns around my head and wore makeup and earrings and kept going until it locked.

[@judiyahspeaks5778]

Having locs is not a privilege, it is our God given right.

[@roospooscreate]

I have locs and I was once asked by a guy when I was going to get ‘normal hair’ ,so I asked him to define what normal hair is ? and he couldn’t say ,but I could tell he meant straight hair . 😂 he was so embarrassed as he realised he sounded very shallow and dumb.

[@hallease]

🤣🤣🤣

[@ldouglas621]

I think you are BEAUTIFUL . It’s the soul for me ✨🪞

[@LoveLife-gv8jg]

First. I love that updo. It's beautiful. I have never been one to allow anyone to tell me how to wear my hair. Buzzed low, perms, cornrows, afro and now locked. Maybe the priveledge for me was that I grew up in a family that had the ability and desire to support me when I couldn't make ends meet. Or because I always sought out the quirky jobs where we all were different anyway. Maybe because I had children later in life and didn't feel that burn to get those bills paid by any means necessary. When I worked for the bank (15 yrs) I did get some snide comments but I guess I never really cared. I certainly didn't change my hair. I have my own business now because I really don't like being told what and how to do anything unless I see an immediate benefit. I don't know if it's priveledge or strength of character and an unwillingness to bend but I'm happy to make my own choices and to allow others to make theirs.

[@ElisiasEvolution]

I love this video, I was tired of conforming. Locs give me freedom, wigs and relaxers costed me time, money and stress...

[@chemnerd8025]

I have very recently left a more corporate work environment and started my loc journey. My first job out of grad school was eye opening. I definitely felt pressured to look "neat and approachable". Now at 33, I feel more comfortable with my hair and just being myself.

[@Thisreadingcorner]

I work in higher education administration/student affairs which is definitely on the accepting side of tattoos/odd color hair/etc. so my concerns with starting my locs this year haven’t been as much about not being hired as they’ve been about me not feeling comfortable with how shrunken my hair is. I loved my huge loose natural hair and had I not experienced two big (unintentional) cuts, I would still be a loose natural. I got to a point where I hated how I looked anyway so I figured I might as well try something new, but I underestimated how my confidence would take a hit thinking about graduating at 9 months in or job hunting at 5-8 months in.

[@khufujahel-aton5481]

Ur hair is gorgeous.

[@WillieFordham]

I remember watching a Keisha Charmaine video and she spoke some what about this. She talked about how she gets questions about wanting logs are already having logs and being in the workplace. She basically said that people need to stop thinking about what others think. Because that's what locks are not for. Other people's opinions. And I agree I have locks myself and I work 4 a Department of Education for a specific state.

[@woodswal]

Your hair is beautiful.

[@MoveMekMiPaZz]

😁✌🏽Jamaican KZbinr in the house and I start my locks journey this year. that for sharing this video.

[@nikkiep23]

I'm so intrigued with this topic. For one, with my first set of locs there was a lot conversations around them whether it be negative or positive. People would either question why I would want to do 'that" to my hair or the you're so brave and strong to defy society. And I was like fam I just like the esthetic. Now fast forward to my current set of micro locs, either people assume they're sisterlocs because they dont know the difference or I'm complimented more. One of friends said its because they're less intimidating and you're not forcing your blackness in white society's face. Locs for me have always been something that I've wanted and I dont see myself without them and I've been working for the federal government for 20 years. I watched Joyce's video and also check out sebutreyu's latest video too.

[@hallease]

"less intimidating" how is hair intimidating to begin with thooooo 😐

[@nikkiep23]

@@hallease exactly! That's what I said. Makes no sense. I think what she meant was that we as black people appear to be less approachable, professional or mainstream with locs. Either way it's a small minded perception but that's how some people think.

[@bw5020]

When I first got my locs, I was pressured to do so, because my security company claimed my afro was "unsightly" and said I needed a more uniformed look. So I got locs. I was so self conscious and afraid because I had used my afro as a security blanket in a white society. The afro is iconic but now considered safe after the long forgotten battle for civil rights. It was juuuuuust enough to validate my heritage without being a bug up the asshole of those who have the the means to gatekeep. With locs, I found that a lot of my confidence and the contr I thought I had was gone. Some jobs would see my credentials and my carry and go over me... They'd acknowledge my ability but they always omitted the reasonings.... It was discouraging. Then, with time, I realized that cultivating locs and neglecting confidence is like being in the spotlight and dropping the ball. It's not for the faint or the fearful. You have to go into it knowing that while they may not look perfect all the time and while you feel exposed and vulnerable, there is strength in rising to the occasion and rerouting fear of perception into fear of surrendering your emotional peace to the verdict of those who do not feed, finance or (pardon) fuck you. I'm almost 5 years in and my whole thought process has grown along with my semi free form one of a kind crown of feathers turned vines. They are unique like me and they walk through the door with the same amount of audacity. I've also learned that no one can take away your shine unless you surrender it. Your right to live is all that is required to have a right to wear your hair as it would naturally occur anyway. "professionalism" is fickle and largely subjective. Another gate keeping tactic. The strong and the intelligent will see your worth for what it is. The weak avoid threatening company. Thank you for this video

[@blaclaquer]

😍😍😍😍😍😍 thank you sis🙏

[@paris6378]

Loc are having that freedom of just doing you. I love your ear rings....lol.

[@myrilunalee9999]

I have locs. Been having it for the last 2 years. I am also in the medical job arena, and I had/have been told by veteran medical providers to wear eurocentric wigs for the interviews, but that once I'm IN the job, I can then let the locs out. So... *sigh* yeah... This is my current state. But, like, right now, I am volunteering at a clinic and my locs are pony tailed and out, and I've had no issues. So... now I'm wondering. My current length of locs, though, makes it a bit more difficult to put it away in a "professional" sense (ie: buns, tie it to the back, corn row back). So, I still worry about my future interviews and the loc looks that are "more professional", and how to navigate that... So, that's where I'm at.

[@emalvowms0]

mirluna lee are the veteran providers black? I got that type of advice from black people regarding not wearing natural hair in a natural state for an interview. But I’m a rebel so I never straightened my hair and I wore my nose piercing to all interviews. I always got the job. Some admins mentioned that I could not wear the piercing while working 🤷🏾‍♀️. I have also interviewed with budding locs never any mention of my hair.

[@locsje4539]

I honestly have done this. I would wear wigs during interviews then wear my locs when I got the job.. however, recently I went for a job interview & wore my locs & I felt comfortable enough to wear them during the interview. I did end up getting the job position right on the spot .

[@Celeste8808]

Deep conversation

[@Kayerickawall40]

Your hair is beautiful

[@ladylauren5258]

I’ve been thinking about locking my hair but I’m not sure if I’m ready for the commitment. I started with being natural, relaxer free for like 7 years

[@Inga912]

I love your locs, but tell us about those boots!

[@hallease]

Ha they're Nisolo

[@lindamunro4422]

Hello and good morning Hallease, I loved your video and it has really made me think💡 For me it is an honour to be able to have dreadlocks( this is what I choose to call mine, each to their own and plus, I'm a bit long in the tooth to call them anything else and they are not "dreadful" either, but just what I(me) know...I am 52) I was born and raised in England and I have never come up against any negative view's about how I choose to wear my hair. People have been fascinated by the fact that they are dreadlocks, some people think that they are in fact hair extensions😕 14 years ago I made the decision to leave my abusive, alcoholic partner. I learnt alot about myself, I learned to love myself and do what I wanted to do for me and not for others. I made the decision to make a fresh start and so I got my big sister to cut off all my hair😮and so started my loc journey and every stage was beautiful and exciting. 14 years later, I am a Support Care Worker and me having dreadlocks have not hindered me in my job, in the summer they flow free and in the colder month's I wrap my loc's in all types of ethnic beautiful clothes and I am rocking that look too lol. I am representing, not only myself, my crown, but my sister's and brother's out there with their loc's/dreadlocks whatever they choose to call them, each to their own and I hold my head high and walk my path with pride, with my children looking, learning and hopefully taking pride and confidence from their mother. Ps I really love your video's, they really get people talking lol ❤

[@hellaSwankkyToo]

oh also your sentiments about wigs and weaves. lord hammercy, ditto. love it + sometimes lowkey wish i could but alas it is just not my ministry. + that's OK. amen. i could write a dissertation on what makes locs scary for folks + a lot, not all, but a lot has to do with the white gaze + society's response not the wearer themself.

[@GoldieLocs524]

I’ve had freeform locs for 18 years. Professionally, I’m a high school teacher in the southern US. My hair has never been an issue and I’ve never considered adjusting my hair based on someone else’s preference. Maybe somewhere there’s privileges in that I’ve never recognized but I don’t recall any

[@davidleonel5033]

I dont like to think of things within the context of privilege. I much prefer to see things, as much as possible , through the perspective of a blessing. I feel Its much more positive for one self and others around. A privilege subconsciously can create feelings of whether something that somebody might have or be could be undeserved and such presumptions are detrimental.

[@TonyMrBoring]

Do you think you'll ever try Hairwax Paint? They are all over Instagram and it works on locs

[@metamystic7]

I think it’s also important to recognize you live in Austin. Speaking as a black woman that started freeform locs while living in Austin, I feel my experience would have been very different starting where I live now in Midwest Kansas. I don’t feel like it’s been an issue now that my hair’s matured, but looking back at pics, I think it would have been a very different experience starting here.

[@hallease]

I'm actually in San Antonio but yes, similar situation to Austin

[@metamystic7]

Ah ha! Yes SA is in a similar boat

[@hellaSwankkyToo]

so is your hair the privilege or is your chosen field + status as an entrepreneur the privilege. genuine question from a lifelong locker in which i am always, have always been the only one in 92% of spaces and 100% of nonBlack spaces. thanks for this video. LOVE the flow and feel of this one. 😍❤✊🏾

[@hallease]

Por qué no los dos? I live in a pretty chill part of Texas, San Antonio is a minority majority city and I'm in a field where aside from basic hygiene I don't have to try too hard

[@insulaarachnid]

Has Mr Hallease observed within his employment area (nursing I think?) whether locs etc are welcome/people don't care/looked down upon?

[@SawyerrsHouse]

Like you, I've also worn my hair natural and in so many different ways - shaved, totally bald, 100% freeform locs & loose natural. I'm torn between whether having locs is a privilege or not. I'd say it's only a privilege when the environment we earn our living from doesn't dictate how we should wear our hair. It's a sad shame we are still having this conversation about the acceptance, or lack thereof of our hair in it's most natural state. My fellow Caucasians wear their hair in its natural state - so why is it different for us🤔.

[@lornaroach615]

I don't think locs is a privilege but its something that belongs to us and we show it off with no problem.

[@shelliepowers2660]

Where do you get your loc jewelry from??

[@hallease]

Amazon, the bigger piece was actually given to me by a stranger here in San Antonio while eating ramen. 👀

[@pochokat6443]

I see it as a privilege in that it represents the existence of my heritage my nation being the first authentic human form from which all were birthed. I have to wear it proud in my understanding. I Instill this in my offsprings and because of my devotion their natural hair is repunzel long as I teach them to respect their crown. They see my locs as simply hair in a different form as I wear in braids and curls too... they desperately want locs So yea although the rulers of this world don’t look like me I see the power and intimidation that my locs emits and this is profound that locs is like their kryptonite. So I embrace my unique form and wear it respectfully giving honor to my creator who is black and comely

[@Martina_E]

Side notes: Where did you get your brown boots? I love your locs. :-)

[@hallease]

My boots are from Nisolo

[@briannaarrington3435]

Birthright

[@whitney7777]

What makes it scary to me is not knowing if I'm ever going to be able to comb through my hair to achieve different looks and styles.

[@MM-yh2mi]

Locs are beautiful. I respect the time, money, and effort that it takes to create braids, locs, weaves, etc. I hope I can teach my daughter to embrace her beautiful coils and give her the freedom and space to wear her hair as she pleases. The privilege I see is in having any type of style. Having lived in East and West African countries, I've seen many people wear their hair so short, there was no opportunity for locs, braids or other styles. It takes money and time to maintain these styles. Without "extra" money, short hair was more practical and more feasible in hot climates. Or the women wore hijab - khimar and burka, hiding their hair and skin when in public.

[@keepitsweet93]

Off topic, but can you share where you got your backpack from? :)

[@hallease]

It's the Wandrd Provke

[@hallease]

shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1361905&u=2312462&m=79898&urllink=&afftrack=

[@arenee656]

I think having the opportunity to be you is a privilege. Luckily, I work in a place where my locs, 12 ear piercings, and nose ring isn’t an issue. I also work in a very diverse environment, so I don’t feel the pressure to represent for all of us. I’m aware that this might change if I move to another agency and it makes me sad. 😢

[@janetofshegatherswellness5403]

Where are these tear drop shaped earrings from??

[@hallease]

The pretty bull

I think it’s all about acceptance . Being told from a white society or maybe family that you aren’t good enough natural , that you need to change . It’s a journey for sure. But it’s all insecurities you’re right. We should all come to realize that we are not our physical body and our appearances doesn’t define us internally or our future. It’s all mental

[@jinxyouowemeasoda1237]

I'm conflicted over wanting to get locs. I'm mainly worried about buildup and retwisting. I want them to be manicured, but I don't want them to thin out or use gel. I also think you're environment and the fact that you have hair is a privilege.

[@SawyerrsHouse]

You are too funny. The weaves and wigs definitely look amazing...but it's not your ministry. I feel you sis. I've never worn them either but enjoy seeing them on other people.