There have been many highly observed social and politic movements birthed during the past twenty years. One of the most impactful that has been natural hair movement, which was launched to fight against the many forms of systemic discrimination designed to hinder Black Americans from cultural expression in school or work. The movement became an act of unification and self-love that the badly damaged community desperately needed. The creation of this movement is what gave us CURLFEST.
Over a decade ago, Gia Lowe, Clarisse Higgins, Simone Mair, Tracey Coleman, and Melody Henderson would come together to execute & host small events as a group. Originating as “Curly Girl Collective” this gathering, developed by Black American women, would honor and embrace; kinky hair, beauty, as well as bonding within the community.
CURLFEST has been unifying women of color of all ages since 2014. Due to the severity of the global pandemic, it underwent a three-year hiatus and is now making a long-awaited return to the summer festival scene in NYC.
The event will be making its return at none other than Randall’s Island on July 15th, 2023; the well-known home base of Governor’s Ball, Panorama, and Electric Zoo Festival,all highly attended and acclaimed events. There isn’t a better place to hold this booming and vibrant celebration.
In honor of their triumphant reintroduction into the natural hair sphere, this year’s installation has been dubbed “Bounce Back.” The title is an ode to the three-year hiatus. With the global pandemic and devastation pulling everyone apart, this is a beautiful opportunity for members community to connect with one another through the love of natural hair.
Attendees can expect to enjoy various different hand picked vendors, live music, food & drinks available for purchase. High-quality fashion and beauty vendors will be there to keep you on trend, everything natural. Live art installations, celebrity appearances & speeches are all on the itinerary for this bountiful event.
“CURLFEST 2023 is a tribute to the resilience of the persons in this space and is curated by women of color, bringing you the best in hair, beauty, lifestyle, and culture across the globe”
Thousands are expected to attend this empowering and inclusive gathering. Be sure to support by attending.
CURLFEST starts at noon on July 15th, at 20 Randall’s Island, NY, NY. For more information, please visit www.curlygirlcollective.com
Kiara Coleman
