For the African diaspora, there are many things to celebrate; our hairstyles serve as a crowning glory rooted in culture. Around the world, Black hair is an expression of history and art. Colombia’s annual “Tejiendo Esperanzas” (Weaving Hopes) celebration takes the reverence for this aspect of the Black experience to another level.

Braiding has origins that stem well before the creation of the contest, both in Colombia and in its ties to Africa. Prior to the abolishment of slavery, braids were often used as cultural messages signaling one’s intent to escape and were even used to keep gold and seeds to help them survive on the journey.

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Weaving Hopes is an annual competition in Cali, CO commemorating the abolition of slavery in Colombia and the tradition of braiding. From colorful adornments to intricate patterns, the contest welcomes hairdressers of the region to participate in categories that celebrate natural, synthetic, men’s, and children’s braid styles. A “Hair Marathon” is another element of the festivities, where members of the public, who are not in the competition, are able to have their hair braided as well, as documented by Daily Mail.

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