I do not like the term "Nappy/Natural Nazi". Why? Due to the historical significance of Nazism I do not think the term should be used lightly. I do not think that the relaxed/natural debate is so serious that it is on par with Nazism. I feel the same way about the word "lynch" being used in casual conversation. The historical significance is acute and I don't think the word should be played with under any circumstances.
Yes, I think all women should step away from the relaxers. And, yes I believe that the continued use of relaxers only supports the prevailing idea that natural hair is ugly and unacceptable. But, just by saying that I'm considered a "Nappy Nazi" and I think that characterization is unfair and uncalled for. I have never entertained the idea of killing someone because of their hair choices so to lump me in with a group of people who encouraged, supported, and carried out the murders of millions of people is just wrong.
I appreciate your view, it's honesty, and the thought behind it. Very different take, very well said.
I can see the offense.
Though personally YOU wouldn't be lumped in that category considering you don't think the debate is serious enough to warrant such language, IMHO. I don't say that to overlook or gloss over your very well-thought and eloquent statement. I just want to again differentiate between people who love natural hair and think we'd be better off without relaxers. I agree. But I respect people's right to choose...and my own, I suppose with that.
I think the term is associated with those who DO think it is that serious and go so far as to verbally ASSAULT relaxed women on sight.
THAT is fanaticism at the very least if not a form of fascism...I also agree...hair is the last thing that should be demanding that kind of passion, with so many children falling behind in health and education...and other issues of equal importance.
I see the connection between the casual use of the word "lynch" and "Nazi". I agree with you both should not be used lightly. It's a new thought in the "Term Debate" and I rather like it.
That said, when someone describes overspending as a "lynchpin" of good credit (or bad credit depending on how you see things) I won't fly over a desk to tackle them for it.
If I see a woman with a gorgeous natural fro ATTACK ANOTHER BLACK WOMAN FOR RELAXING AS MUCH AS SOCIETY DOES FOR BEING BLACK RELAXED OR NATURAL FURTHER SEPARATING AN ALREADY TORN PEOPLE...I'm going to say something.
To both of them.
To the natural woman: You won't save the world if all of us wear fros. It's what's IN Your head that is important. I'm glad you love your natural texture...but there are bigger fish to fry in this world with such passion. You need to heal the heart...not the hair. All the external stuff comes with time.
To the relaxed woman: Have you thought about going natural? No? Why not? If yes, what stopped you? Would you like more info or help? No, you say you don't want to be, or tried it and it didn't fit your lifestyle? Understood, thanks for talking with me. Have a great day.
I've never seen the term as lumping in people with mass murders -but the hate-filled, illogical, frenzied insanity that accompanied it.
You may say what's the difference? One is lumping people in with the result, the other is linking people with the frame of mind/reference that led to it. Offensive? Possibly.
But so is being attacked for relaxing.
That and such "Natural-Nazis" come with such a vicious edge you have to wonder if the outright assault is to build themselves up or tear you down.
Why does it seem Black women are darned if we do, darned if we don't?
BY OUR OWN? Oy. Life is as complicated as it is interesting.
Again, thanks for your views. I love when something makes me take a pause and do some introspection.