Jill Andrew MPP, Toronto–St. Paul's

You're invited to a community workshop and conversation on the history of Black hair politics featuring Simone Wright, founder of Parting the Roots. 

Please join us on March 25th at 6 PM at the Central Eglinton Community Centre (Room 302), or join us on Zoom. 

If you plan to join us in-person, RSVP at the bottom of this page. 

If you plan to join us on Zoom, click here to register. 

About Simone:

Simone Wright is a Community Image Activist and Cultural Curator. Curiosity and passion are a few ingredients that enable her to be the storyteller that she is in her day job as an Insights Manager and Founder of Parting The Roots which is a grassroots community organization focused on the history, significance and politics behind Black hair. Her mission is to educate on the deep rooted history of Black hair, highlight the impact of systemic racism and to normalize Black hair to be represented in any way desired. She has appeared on CBC, Toronto Life and various related podcasts as well as presenting virtual workshops around the world. In 2023, Simone introduced Messages From Nana, a 52-card deck of Black hair affirmations designed to promote self-love and empowerment around one’s hair. She is also a Canadian Certified Inclusion Professional and a certified PsychoHairapist.

About the Workshop:

"Parting The Roots" serves as a platform dedicated to addressing hair discrimination in the Black community and its integral connection to the Black Canadian identity. Our mission is to break down barriers, foster open dialogues about race, and collectively embark on a journey of learning, growth, confronting discomfort, and dismantling racism within Canada.

The presentation format will be a comprehensive exploration of the chronological history of Black hair. It aims to uncover the historical significance, the tools employed for its care, the cultural rituals disrupted by the horrors of slavery, and the oppressive demands to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards. Additionally, we will delve into the evolution of Black hair businesses, the empowering natural hair movement, discussions surrounding cultural appropriation and appreciation, and the vital movement to normalize Black hair in all its authentic forms.

As we conclude this presentation, we will provide valuable insights and suggestions on how to become an ally in this ongoing struggle for justice and equality. Together, let us embark on a journey of understanding, unity, and empowerment.