SOulFully Textured®, A Natural Hair Festival Returns to Martha's Vineyard: Celebrating Black Culture

Back on Martha’s Vineyard this August for its Second annual event, SOulFully Textured® A Natural Hair Festival is offering a joyous celebration of our crowns, community, and culture through the lens of those with afro-textured natural hair. This event, started from The Curated Curl, an online community that began on Facebook, seeks to empower individuals and eradicate the discrimination and stigma associated with natural afro-textured hair.

At the heart of the festival are thought-provoking panels that explore various aspects of natural hair and the significance of Black hair in today's society. However, the panels go deeper than just topics on hair such as “Breaking the Bias: Embracing Natural Hair Amidst Adversity”, which delves into the impact of banning books and limited discussions on race in public education and the experiences of BIPOC children who may not see themselves and their lived experiences represented in the classroom.

Moderating two of the panels will be Callie Crossley, a respected and acclaimed television and radio host known for her programs such as "Under the Radar with Callie Crossley" and "Basic Black." With a wealth of experience and accolades including the Gold Baton DuPont Columbia award, a national Edward R. Murrow Award, a national Emmy, and an Oscar nomination for her producer work on "Eyes on the Prize: America's Civil Rights Years," Crossley brings a depth of knowledge to the discussions.

As part of the festival's commitment to supporting Black businesses, SOulFully Textured, A Natural Hair Festival will coincide with August's Black Business Month. The festival proudly presents a vibrant Black-owned vendor marketplace, providing a platform for entrepreneurs and creators to showcase their products and services. By promoting and supporting Black businesses, the festival aims to strengthen the economic impact and foster a sense of community.

Founder of The Curated Curl, Nike Okediji,(pictured below right in orange) expressed her excitement about returning to Martha's Vineyard, a special place for African Americans. She said, "It's the perfect place to celebrate our culture, meet new friends, and create lasting memories. Martha’s Vineyard is a special place where everyone experiences a sense of belonging. Returning to Martha's Vineyard allows us to continue pouring into ourselves and culture, in a safe space while we uplift and amplify black beauty and natural hair. It’s an empowering day in a magical place."

SOulFully Textured, A Natural Hair Festival invites attendees of all backgrounds to join in this joyous celebration of culture, diversity, and natural beauty. It promises an impactful experience featuring creative expression, cultural discussions, engaging panels, natural hair education, curated vendors, giveaways and an atmosphere of togetherness.

SOulFully Textured®, A Natural Hair Festival will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Martha’s Vineyard at Waban Park, in Oak Bluffs, MA. Tickets range from $15 to $25 and are on sale now at: https://soulfullytexturedfestivalMV2.eventbrite.com