Striving to remove barriers that prevent us from building Vibrant, Diverse, Inclusive, Accessible Communities!
A 17-year-old Lakota teenager, Reuben Looks Twice Jr, recently set the Guinness World Record for the longest hair on a male teen, measuring 161cm (5ft 3.3in). “Culturally, Lakota people have long hair,” Reuben said, invoking the Lakota word for “spirit.” “It’s part of our Nagi. It’s who I am. I feel proud to represent my family and the Lakota Nation.”
Reuben began growing his hair because hair clippers scared him. As he got older, he continued growing it to honor the tradition of the Lakota, for whom hair is a sacred symbol representing the connection with one’s soul, family, and community. Reuben mainly wears his hair in a braid, washing it every morning, drying it for an hour, and then spending another 10 minutes untangling, brushing, and braiding it again.
The forced cutting of Native Americans' hair in boarding schools was a traumatic practice imposed by oppressors to erase cultural identity. This practice, which disregarded the sacredness of hair in Native cultures, inflicted deep emotional pain and violated the personal choice associated with cutting hair only in response to significant life events such as a death or major change. This forced haircutting was a profound disrespect for Native cultural values.
In our current community-building efforts, we must personally commit to acknowledging and addressing these historical wrongs. By recognizing and learning from past injustices, we can actively work to remove barriers and ensure that everyone’s cultural practices and values are respected and celebrated. Striving to remove barriers that prevent us from building vibrant, diverse, inclusive, and accessible communities involves honoring both historical and contemporary cultural identity and practices of Native peoples.
Reuben’s journey highlights the profound significance of hair in Native American culture as a symbol of identity, unity, and resilience. His story not only celebrates a remarkable individual achievement but also honors the rich cultural traditions of the Lakota and other Indigenous peoples. This article sheds light on the importance of preserving and respecting cultural practices that define Native heritage and strengthen communities.
Read the full article and watch the Video of Reuben Looks Twice Jr. in his own words: Lakota teen who set world record with hair says he is proud to represent tribe
by Ramon Antonio Vargas
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