Is natural hair a "statement"?

Is it political? Sure we can say that natural hair is simply what we are without the fluff, but what makes us want to go natural? Is it a rejection of white standards of beauty? Is it giving up trying to make relaxers work as part of a healthy hair regimen--second best? Is it only fit for certain settings and environments? Is there anyone who went natural without a conscious reason, just because? Why do some natural women spend half or more of their time in public in straight/curly weaves and wigs? Are they afraid of how they will be perceived?  Will there ever come a time when being yourself is not a "journey"? When natural hair isn't seen as trying to make some type of point? Will natural hair ever become the rule instead of the exception?

Life is a journey, hair is only a small part of it. You don't go natural, you return to
It...don't mind me, I'm just channeling my inner Maya.

I grew up natural.  Got my first relaxer at 16 and it never felt like me.  I always felt like an impostor in my own skin.  Especially when people would compliment my hair.  It was beautiful but I didn't feel like my reflection in the mirror.   Plus when I washed it it felt flat and I have very thick hair and I missed feeling it.

if you felt chained to your relaxer or weave, then finally embracing yourself is a personal statement

MizzAmirah wrote: For some it is....I think those who make it a big deal such as an "identity" thing may suffer a bit from low self-esteem in one way or another, cus they're the same people that would bash others for a hair-related issue (aka "natural nazis"). It's not that serious. It's just frikkin hair., whether it's nice and healthy, kinky, curly, or Indian remy.