Name: Shawn Scott.
Location: Washington, DC
Occupation: Public Education Advocate/Model
Why do you choose to wear your hair the way you do? My hair makes a statement. It’s my crown. It’s unique. I’m not the only person who has locs, but no one’s locs are like mine.
What does your hair mean to you? Is it just an accessory that compliments your personality and style or is it deeper than that?
Growing my hair to a length that could be styled allowed me to practice patience. Well maintained locs require time and dedication. My hair not only makes a statement about my personality, but because I wanted to educate myself on the proper way to maintain healthy locs, I’ve met incredible people and made great friends.
Would you ever shave your hair or perm it for a gig? Please elaborate.
Perm? No. Shave? Wow… I would give it some thought. It would have to be a great gig! I’ve grown my locs for 7 years and it’s hard to see myself without them. If I were ever asked to shave my head for a modeling gig, I’d suggest Photoshop first!
How important is a woman’s hair to you?
A woman’s hair is important… period! lol Women communicate with their hair. It gives you an idea of her personality and is one of the many ways a woman expresses herself.
Are you single, married or dating? If you’re dating or married, how does she wear her hair? Natural, permed or weave and do you like it? If you are not dating, what type of hair should your ideal future woman have, how should she wear her hair or do you care at all?
I’m single. The women I’ve dated in the past have worn their hair in many different styles. Although I’m not a fan of weave, my ideal woman’s hair isn’t that important to me. One moment a beautiful woman with long hair will catch my eye, the next, one with short hair will make me do a double-take. If she’s happy with it, I’m happy.
Have you ever been stereotyped? If so can you please share details?
I’ve been stereotyped. I travel often. I’ve met people from towns and been to cities where Black men with locs are only seen on TV. Sometimes people will just stare. Other times it shows in the form of a slightly rude question or comment. I don’t allow it to bother me. If I can, I use the situation as an opportunity to educate someone.
Do you think black hair is an issue? Why or why not?
I don’t black hair is an issue at all. Just like the cover of a book, it’s about what’s underneath. It’s all about the individual. I think all too often, people are quick to judge another based on appearance.
Are there things that you as a man would like to see changed when it comes to natural hairstyles and society? For instance men with locs and cornrows are being stereotyped and like to see that changed, some men think that too many women wear weaves and some men don’t like the natural styles that women wear these days.
I’ve enjoyed watching styles evolve and culture grow. It’s good to see healthy natural hair care products go mainstream. I’m hoping that stylist continue to educate themselves on healthy products and are brave enough to trust their own creativity. Natural hair was here first. It’s not going anywhere anytime soon.
