If you ever thought breastfeeding was the only most important bond that little babies share with their mothers ….well, Serena Williams is letting you know black women have other ways and these other ways have become traditions passed from centuries that leave feelings of nostalgia when one gets older.
The Forbes self-made millionaire athlete took some time off to spend quality time with her 1-year-old daughter in pure African-style – having a sit down mother-daughter hair moment.
The African-American tennis queen who has over the years been spotted in a variety of braided styles shared a post on her Instagram as she braided her daughter’s hair.
The picture is a happy one with Alexis Olympia’s smile sure to cause you to smile as well, however, what resonated most with people, especially black women and girls is the long but worthy post about the origins of hair braiding technique, its significance and importance. Serena Williams
With a touch of pride written all over it, Serena Williams said in her post:
“Braiding started in Africa with the Himba people of Namibia. We have been braiding our hair for centuries,” “In many African tribes braided hairstyles were a unique way to identify each tribe. Because of the time, it would take, people would often take the time to socialize. It began with the elders braiding their children, then the children would watch and learn from them. The tradition of bonding was carried on for generations and quickly made its way across the world. I am honoured to share this bonding experience with my own daughter and add another generation of historic traditions.”
In social media style, thousand of her fans, including celebrity friends commented on her post.
Serena Williams is definitely putting her boss lady act on hold for baby Olympia and teaching her what it means to be black and African despite the very multicultural environment she finds herself in.
The post, which is well on its way to getting a million likes might also be the start of a whole new trend on social media defining the hairstyles to try this summer- BRAIDS!