Lyndsay Amato, a single mother from the Carcross/Tagish First Nation living in Regina, proudly wears her braids in solidarity with the international #BraidsforCole movement. She is joined by her 13-year-old son, who used to wear his hair in braids until an incident at a young age. When he was three years old, another child at a day home cut his long hair, causing him and his mother a great deal of hurt and pain. Amato emphasizes the importance of hair in Indigenous culture, stating that it is an integral part of their identity and personality, regardless of where they are in the world. The incident with her son hit close to home when she heard about Cole Brings Plenty, an actor from the Yellowstone spinoff 1923, found dead with his braids cut off in Kansas.
The tragic death of Cole Brings Plenty sparked the #BraidsforCole movement as a way for people to express their grief and solidarity by wearing their hair in braids. The movement aims to reclaim cultural identity and highlight the significance of hair in Indigenous culture. Saskatchewan First Nations and Métis relations critic Betty Nippi-Albright emphasized the sacredness of hair and braids, linking them to the Creator, ancestors, and culture. She noted that wearing braids is a way to remember not only Brings Plenty but also the countless Indigenous men in history who had their braids taken from them. Amato encourages others to continue wearing braids in honor of Brings Plenty and her son, advocating for cultural reclamation and awareness.
The significance of wearing braids in Indigenous culture goes beyond just a fashion statement, as it is deeply tied to their spirituality, heritage, and connection to their ancestors. The act of wearing braids is a form of resistance and resilience, particularly in the face of colonialism and attempts to erase Indigenous identity. By participating in the #BraidsforCole movement, individuals are not only showing support for Brings Plenty and his family but also standing in solidarity with Indigenous communities and their ongoing struggles for cultural preservation and recognition.
The #BraidsforCole movement has gained momentum on social media, with people from all backgrounds coming together to honor Cole Brings Plenty and raise awareness about issues faced by Indigenous peoples. The wearing of braids is seen as a symbol of unity and respect, showcasing the power of collective action in advocating for justice and cultural revitalization. By wearing their hair in braids, individuals are making a tangible statement of support for Indigenous rights and traditions, while also honoring the memory of those who have faced discrimination and violence due to their cultural practices.
Amato’s decision to wear her braids in solidarity with the #BraidsforCole movement is a personal and meaningful gesture that reflects her commitment to honoring her Indigenous heritage and standing up against injustice. Through this act of cultural reclamation, she is reclaiming her identity and asserting her belonging in a society that often marginalizes Indigenous peoples. By sharing her story and encouraging others to join in wearing braids, Amato is helping to amplify the voices and experiences of Indigenous communities, fostering greater understanding and empathy among a wider audience.
In conclusion, the #BraidsforCole movement serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural identity, self-expression, and solidarity in the face of adversity. By wearing braids in honor of Cole Brings Plenty and other Indigenous individuals who have been targeted for their heritage, participants are sending a clear message that Indigenous cultures are valued, respected, and deserving of protection. Through collective action and advocacy, the movement is bringing attention to the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous communities and working towards a more inclusive and equitable society where all cultures are acknowledged and celebrated.
