Kia Locke's definitions

cornrows

One of several protective methods used to prevent breakage of kinky, nappy, tightly curled or coily hair. These braiding techniques were brought to the New World by African slaves and knowledge of these traditions were passed from generation to generation whereever black Africans were enslaved.

Traditionally these hairstyles were only used by women and little girls. Presently cornrows are a non-gender specific style used for convenience and protection of kinky hair.

Measha becomes deeply offended when she hears whites and Asians refer to cornrows as just a hairstyle.

by Kia Locke November 11, 2008