National Afro Day is a global celebration dedicated to embracing and honoring natural afro-textured hair, particularly among Black and mixed-race individuals. This day promotes self-acceptance, challenges beauty standards, and fights against hair discrimination.
Quick Facts
When is it: September 15th annually
Tagged as: Cultural celebration, hair positivity movement
What’s the hashtag: #WorldAfroDay
When was it founded: 2017
Who founded it: Michelle De Leon
History
The day emerged as a response to widespread discrimination against natural afro hair textures. It gained significant recognition when endorsed by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and the London Mayor’s Office. The celebration aims to normalize afros and combat biases in professional and social settings while promoting pride in natural hair textures.
Timeline
- 1960s: Afros become a symbol of Black Pride movement
- 1970s: Prominent figures like Angela Davis popularize the afro hairstyle
- 2016: UK Parliament debates afro hair acceptance in schools
- 2017: First World Afro Day celebration
- 2020s: Growing global recognition and celebration
Upcoming Dates
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September | 15 | Monday |
| 2026 | September | 15 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | September | 15 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | September | 15 | Friday |
| 2029 | September | 15 | Saturday |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by attending spotlight events, sharing personal hair stories, posting photos on social media, and participating in educational programs about afro hair care and history.
Fun Facts About Afros
- Afros require a special wide-toothed comb called an afro pick
- The style gained popularity during the Civil Rights Movement
- It represents both cultural identity and political resistance
- Different regions developed unique natural hair celebrations
Quiz
- When is World Afro Day celebrated?
- Who founded World Afro Day?
- Which organization endorsed the celebration?
- What year was the first celebration?
-(Answers: September 15th; Michelle De Leon; UN High Commissioner for Human Rights; 2017)
FAQs
- Is it celebrated worldwide? Yes, it’s a global celebration
- What’s the main purpose? To celebrate natural hair and fight discrimination
- Is it only for people with afros? No, it celebrates all natural hair textures
Related Celebrations
- Black History Month
- Natural Hair Day
- CROWN Act Awareness Day
- African Heritage Month
- Cultural Pride Day