Roots of Culture

This year, St. Luke’s hosted its annual Fall Festival, a celebration filled with food, excitement, and most importantly, community. Families from all backgrounds came together to enjoy a day of fellowship, and I had the opportunity to be part of something truly meaningful.

As a capstone student focusing on culturally responsive haircare, I was invited to host a table dedicated to cultural hair care education. What began as a simple setup with combs, products, and hair samples quickly grew into a space of storytelling, joy, and connection.

Throughout the day, I braided hair for children and adults who stopped by the table. While my hands moved, their stories flowed. Stories about first braids before school picture day, Saturday mornings spent at the salon, grandmothers who could braid with their eyes closed, and the pride that comes with embracing hair.

Each braid became a moment of trust and a doorway into someone’s history. It reminded me that hair is deeply personal, often tied to culture, identity, and family memories. Being welcomed into those conversations was an honor.

My goal was to educate the community about the importance of cultural hair care. how it relates to identity, how it manifests in daily routines, and how it impacts wellness and participation. Many families expressed how meaningful it was to see haircare recognized in a healthcare and educational setting.

Parents asked questions about protective hairstyles, wash-day routines, and how to advocate for their child’s needs in school or clinical environments. These conversations reaffirmed that representation matters, especially in healthcare, where culturally specific needs are often overlooked.

The Fall Festival was more than an event—it was a reminder of the strength that comes from community connection. The laughter, the shared stories, and the willingness of so many to engage in conversations about culture and identity made the day special.

Leaving the festival, I felt inspired and grateful. Experiences like this reinforce why I chose haircare as my capstone focus: because culture deserves to be seen, honored, and celebrated.

Colbie York