Wigs in Senegal

Hair is funny in Senegal.

The majority of women wear wigs at all times. They sow the wigs into their hair so that they stay on better. My host sister, Florence, left her wig in the living room so I logically grabbed it and danced around the house wearing it. Like a good sister, she chased me, screaming the whole time.

And no, I haven't really grown up.

I've heard criticism from some Senegalese women about the practice of wig wearing. They say that if women are as proud of their African heritage as they claim to be, they should not wear Toubab wigs--aka straight hair similar to Asians, Caucasians, or Latinos. One should embrace one's entire history and ethnicity, including their hair.

I do not judge the motivation behind wigs in Senegal. I believe one should be able to dress as they please. However, I could never constantly wear a wig myself. It's just too hot here to warrant sewing thick insulation to my head.

(On a separate note, yes, I am wearing a Golden Retrievers of Texas Shirt in these pictures. I love dogs, Texas, and T-shirts.)