No, NY Times’ article on Travis Kelce’s hair isn’t cultural appropriation
Travis Kelce’s Hairdo: A Debate on Cultural Appropriation
Travis Kelce, the white football player and beau of pop musician Taylor Swift, has been rocking the hottest hairstyle for men right now. According to a writer at The New York Times, it’s called the “Travis Kelce Hairdo.” However, this lighthearted piece has sparked controversy, with accusations of cultural appropriation flying around.
Ameen Hudson, from the “Southside Rabbi” podcast, and Jemele Hill, an activist posing as a sports journalist, have accused the writer, and possibly Kelce, of cultural appropriation. While they may have a point, it’s important to note that the fade hairstyle actually originated from military cuts in the 1940s and 1950s.
The norm for hairstyles in the military has always been short since World War I. The invention of electric clippers by Leo Wahl during World War II led to the rise in popularity of the fade. Historical photos show young men sporting this style, both in service and on the battlefield.
So, if we’re talking about appropriation, the Times article may be closer to the truth than Hudson and Hill. The fade hairstyle has a long history, with notable figures like Johnny Unitas and Malcolm X rocking it. It has also been popular among actors and athletes for years.
However, the real significance of Kelce’s choice of hairstyle lies in the fact that he opted for a fade instead of dreadlocks. By doing so, he has inspired young men who draw inspiration from him to adopt a style that suits them better. It’s a clean and sharp look that complements any attire.
If Kelce had chosen dreadlocks, it would have been a different story. It would have been seen as cultural appropriation and caused embarrassment for those who tried to imitate him. Thankfully, Kelce’s choice of hairstyle has sparked a debate on cultural appropriation, but it could have been much worse if he had gone for a more controversial style.
Richard Cromwell is a writer and senior contributor at The Federalist. He resides in Northwest Arkansas with his wife, three daughters, and two energetic dogs. You can find him on Facebook and Twitter, although he suggests avoiding social media.
Can Travis Kelce’s adoption of a traditionally black hairstyle be seen as a positive step towards inclusivity, or does it reinforce societal inequalities
Wever, this trendy hairstyle has sparked a debate on cultural appropriation, with some arguing that Kelce is appropriating black culture by adopting this hairstyle.
Cultural appropriation is a complex topic that has gained significant attention in recent years. It refers to the adoption of elements, symbols, or practices from one culture by members of another culture, often without understanding or respecting the cultural significance behind them. Hairstyles, in particular, have become a flashpoint for this debate.
In the case of Travis Kelce’s hairdo, it is important to note that the hairstyle in question is commonly associated with black culture. The style involves cornrows, a technique that has roots in African traditions and has been worn by people of African descent for centuries. This cultural significance cannot be ignored.
Supporters of cultural appropriation argue that individuals should be free to adopt and express themselves through various hairstyles without being labeled as appropriative. They argue that hairstyles, like any form of self-expression, should not be limited by cultural boundaries. Others contend that cultural exchange is a natural part of human history and should be celebrated, not condemned.
However, critics of cultural appropriation argue that it is not just about the adoption of hairstyles but the power dynamics inherent in the act. They argue that marginalized cultures have historically faced discrimination for their cultural practices, which have been viewed as “unprofessional” or “uncivilized.” When individuals from dominant cultures appropriate these practices, they often receive praise and admiration, while those from the marginalized cultures continue to face stigma.
In the case of Travis Kelce, as a white man rocking a hairstyle associated with black culture, the debate intensifies. Some argue that Kelce appropriating this style reinforces societal inequalities by commodifying and profiting from black culture, without facing the same discrimination that black individuals have historically endured for wearing their hair naturally.
Others argue that Kelce’s adoption of this hairstyle can actually be seen as a positive step towards dismantling stereotypes and promoting inclusivity. By showcasing a traditionally black hairstyle, Kelce may be challenging societal norms and encouraging a broader acceptance of diverse cultural influences.
It is important to engage in respectful dialogue and understanding when discussing cultural appropriation. While it is crucial to recognize and honor the history and cultural significance behind certain practices, it is also essential to acknowledge the potential for personal growth and bridge-building through cultural exchange.
In the case of Travis Kelce’s hairdo, the debate on cultural appropriation continues. It raises important questions about power dynamics, respect for cultural traditions, and the role of individuals in shaping a more inclusive society. It calls for an ongoing conversation that considers the nuances and complexities of cultural exchange, as well as the potential for continued understanding and mutual appreciation.
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