On November 2, Sister Spokesman hosted a vibrant and insightful event titled “Caring for Our Crowns,” focusing on hair care and wellness for Black women. The event brought together a panel of experts and vendors dedicated to uplifting the community and promoting overall well-being.
Founded 20 years ago by Tracey Williams-Dillard, publisher and CEO of the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder, Sister Spokesman hosts monthly events that foster connections and empower attendees. Williams-Dillard kicked off the gathering with her signature call-and-response greeting: “Hey, sisters!” followed by an enthusiastic “Soul sisters!” She encouraged attendees to think beyond hair care products, urging them to consider how such events can help build wealth and empower the community.
The event featured an engaging panel of local hair care professionals, including De’Vonna Pittman of Nature’s Syrup, Tiffany Blackwell of VIP Salon, and Tranese Brown of Natural Hair Designs. The experts shared their personal journeys in the hair care industry, discussed the science behind hair health, and addressed topics such as hair growth, textures, treatments, and product choices.
Pittman, who embraced her natural hair texture in 2012, shared her story of moving away from chemical relaxers after realizing their damaging effects on her hair. “It’s important for us to think about the chemicals that we put in our hair. Those chemicals don’t just sit on your head; they travel through your body,” she explained. Pittman’s message resonated with the audience, especially following a recent National Institutes of Health study linking chemical hair straighteners to an increased risk of uterine cancer. The study found that women who used these products more than four times a year were more than twice as likely to develop uterine cancer compared to those who did not.
In response to her own struggles with finding effective hair care products, Pittman began creating her own hair butter with natural, socially responsible ingredients. Almost eight years later, her business has flourished, with her products now available in Macy’s and Walmart. Pittman’s products aim to nourish and restore hair health, making them a trusted choice for many.
Blackwell, who has over 31 years of experience in the industry, stressed the importance of holistic hair care, stating, “Whatever is going on internally is going to be reflected in our hair and skin.” She educated the audience on factors that can influence hair texture, such as hormonal changes, medication, aging, and the repeated use of chemical treatments.
Brown added a compassionate perspective, highlighting the importance of self-respect and confidence in hair care. “I try to treat people equally and with respect. They come to me to feel beautiful, and everyone deserves to feel beautiful,” she said.
After the panel discussion, attendees had the opportunity to explore a variety of Black-woman-owned businesses. Vendors included Lynn Holman’s Pink Pearl Bliss, Rosa Mensa’s Batakali Fashions, Betty Sanders’ Unique Fashion & Accessories, Primerica representatives, and Bukola Oriola’s EWA Hair & Skincare. Oriola, whose business is dedicated to community support, donates a significant portion of the proceeds from EWA to The Enitan Story (TES), a nonprofit she founded in 2013. TES works to support victims of human trafficking and domestic violence through training, advocacy, and skill-building programs.
The event wrapped up with networking opportunities, games, and prizes, alongside a catered lunch, allowing attendees to further connect and share their experiences.
Looking ahead, Sister Spokesman’s next event, focusing on “Seasonal Wellness: Eating Smart for Mind, Body, and Spirit,” will take place on December 7 from noon to 3 p.m. at the Minnesota African American Heritage Museum & Gallery in Minneapolis.
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