It's More Than Just Hair: Addressing the Cultural Needs of Black Girls in Foster Care

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This essay considers the historical and current relationship between the child welfare system and Black families and its effect on the lives of Black children, with a focus on the minimal attention that is given to their racial, ethnic, and cultural needs once placed in foster care. It explores the importance of understanding how Black foster youth navigate the experiences of racial socialization and ethnic identity. This essay specifically focuses on Black girls and through a sociohistorical overview of the importance of Black hair in America, I address the connection between socialization and hair and haircare perceptions and experiences of Black foster girls. Based on critical analysis of research that highlights the potential for unfavorable outcomes, I address the level of responsibility that the child welfare system has to Black youth and emphasize that prioritizing the cultural needs of Black youth is paramount to the development of a healthy sense of self. Finally, I call for the child welfare system to consider multiple perspectives and engage in multiple dialogues when considering how to best support Black youth in care and provide supportive conditions for them to thrive.