ABSTRACT
Hair braiding is an ancient art passed from generation to generation. Many hair braiders may have never attended a formal school or college to learn the art. This chapter investigates six states with varying licensure requirements for hair braiders are Minnesota, California, Illinois, New York, North Carolina, and Colorado. It aims to specify license requirements for hair braiders in different states and to address the popularity of West African hair braiders among Black women. The chapter investigates different states licensing requirements for hair braiders, the training options, and popularity of West African braiding shops. Some Nollywood films are comedies, but the majority emphasizes moral dilemmas facing modern West Africans at home and abroad. Melody also frequents West African braiding shops and enjoys viewing Nollywood films while having her hair braided. Sometimes Melody needs interpretational assistance in understanding the lyrics of the music, language, and customs shown in the Nollywood films.
