Two years ago today, in partnership with The Root, I revealed my alopecia diagnosis. It wasn’t easy. Vulnerability rarely is. But showing up authentically and unapologetically, creating space for others living with alopecia to feel seen, heard, and represented, was and remains necessary.
Alopecia is an autoimmune disease that attacks the hair follicles, and disproportionately affects children, Black Americans — and, particularly, Black women. Some people may say that it’s “just hair.” But the personal is political and our hair journey is no exception.
When I was first diagnosed with alopecia universalis in late 2019, I mourned the loss of my hair, and a large piece of my identity and culture, and struggled to accept this permanent new version of myself.
Losing my hair to alopecia felt like a jarring, disruptive betrayal.
But, I am now bald and in great company. I am deeply grateful to my new community — the Alopecia Squad, the bald and beautiful community of alopecians, and folx with other forms of traumatic hair loss, who have embraced me in the two years since.
My alopecia journey has reinforced what we know to be true: that we each deserve to show up in the world, to occupy space as our whole and authentic selves, and that we have a responsibility to create space for others to do the same.
It hasn’t always been easy, but today I am standing tall and strong in my power because of the support of my family, the A-Team, the alopecia community, and all of you.
With love and gratitude, and in solidarity,
Ayanna
If you or someone you know is living with alopecia and in need of resources, or wants to learn more, please click here: https://www.naaf.org/find-support
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