Simone Biles, the undisputed queen of gymnastics, once again soared to new heights at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. But her historic victory wasn’t just about gold medals and breathtaking routines; it was also about a powerful message of self-love and defiance in the face of microaggressions.
After securing her seventh Olympic medal, Biles took to Instagram to address the constant barrage of comments about her hair. “My hair is my hair,” she declared, “It’s a part of me, it’s a part of my identity. It’s not a topic of conversation. It’s not up for debate.”
This wasn’t the first time Biles had to defend her natural hair. Throughout her career, she has been subjected to scrutiny and criticism regarding her hairstyles, often being told they are “unprofessional” or “unbecoming” for a high-profile athlete.
However, Biles refuses to conform to these unrealistic and racially charged expectations. She embraces her natural beauty, proving that her athletic prowess is not defined by her hair.
Her message resonates deeply with Black women who have long faced societal pressure to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards. From being told their hair is “unruly” or “too ethnic” to facing discrimination in workplaces and schools, Black women are constantly reminded that their natural hair is not considered acceptable.
Biles’ bold statement is a powerful reminder that Black beauty is not a subject for debate. It’s time to shift the conversation away from judging Black women’s hairstyles and instead focus on celebrating their achievements and their individual journeys.
By speaking out against these microaggressions, Biles becomes a role model for young Black girls, empowering them to embrace their natural beauty and unapologetically be themselves. Her message transcends the realm of sports, serving as a rallying cry for self-acceptance and challenging societal norms that dictate how Black women should look and act.
Simone Biles is not just an Olympic champion; she is a voice for a generation, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future where Black beauty is celebrated in all its forms. Her win in Tokyo is a victory for all Black women, and her powerful message about her hair will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come.
