Black hair is beautiful and everyone needs to recognize that. For as long as any of us can remember, commercials about shampoos or conditioners have been geared toward “straight-haired beauties.” But what about women with locks? Women with curls? Women with weave?

We need to acknowledge and appreciate African American hair because all black hair is beautiful.

First of all, working on our hair is very tedious. We need to give credit when credit is due. Mornings are strenuous from the coconut oil distribution.

Or, some days the shrinkage is real and you are trying to flat iron it.

Don’t always assume that black hair is equal on all fronts. So when you see an African American with a cute pixie cut and another with luscious locks don't assume that their hair texture is the same.

We have one request: please do not touch our hair.

We aren't an animal at a petting zoo.

Our hair isn’t something that needs to be frowned upon. An African American woman should be able to wear her hair as long, short, curly or however she wants. In society, we beg black woman to have the pretty long, straight hair because that is considered “beautiful.” No more of that, please. We’ve been taught that our natural hair isn't appropriate for work and that is completely ridiculous.

Whatever makes you feel beautiful is what is most important. If wearing a weave on Monday and planning to wear your afro puff the next day is what works for you, go for it. If you see this, acknowledge and appreciate it.

Appreciate what makes us beautiful. This is our beauty. We made this. So when people find it "cool," try to recreate it and make it their own, it is very annoying. It can also come off as offensive.

No, you don't wish you had our hair. Don't take this away from us.

Hair is a part of our culture. It’s a part of our history, so don’t make it a part of yours.