NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- If you talk to any Latinx woman with thick and curly hair, you will hear the same story. They walk into the salon to get their hair done, only to be told they have “pelo malo” (bad hair). It is a term used to shame those with a hair texture that is of African ancestry.
As an Afro-Latina from the Dominican Republic, Sherly Tavarez’ story is no different. Since she was a child, her mother had her hair relaxed so it would be straight and smooth, spending up to six hours in the salon for years. Tavares believed her curly hair was not beautiful.
While in her early 20s, Tavarez decided she would allow her hair to go natural, with her curls on full display. The decision eventually led her to the creation of a t-shirt: “Pelo malo, where?” which has now become a statement of empowerment for many women. Tavarez says it helps to create a conversation about the stereotype that comes with being an Afro-Latina having thick, curly hair.
Tavarez continues to empower women through Hause of Curls. It is not only her business but her mission. She has received countless emails from women saying, “You created this because you want more of us to know and realize that we‘re beautiful just the way we are."
When asked what her message is to women everywhere, her response: “You’re never going to please everyone. I think as long as you feel good in your skin, in your hair with your natural self, the more you are comfortable with who you really are, the better you’ll feel.”
You can visit her website at HauseofCurls.com and her Instagram @hauseofcurls.