by
Black Girl With Long Hair
When did you decide to stop wearing a wig and rock your afro on TV?
T: I wore the wig for about a month and that experience was torture for me. During my transition I’d gotten an awful heavily layered cut, which made my hair look like a big poof! I thought a wig would allow me to grow my hair out for a few months, before making the big chop…but fear got the best of me, I was often afraid a big gust of wind would come and blow the wig away! So in late September I went to a stylist for the big chop but she refused to do it. I went home and did it myself! The rest is is history!
How has it been? What kind of reaction have you gotten from viewers?
T: The response has been overwhelmingly positive. I’ve gotten mail from viewers praising me for my decision or complimenting me on my new look. I have to also say that Chris Rock on Oprah really helped! People on the street will say, “I saw Oprah! Good for you!” Believe it or not I also feel closer to “me” — more comfortable in my own skin, and I thought I was already pretty comfortable!
What is your word to black women trying to make it in journalism?
T: I say BE YOURSELF. Journalism is changing at rapid speed and the broadcast side is so competitive…but the one something that no one else can do is you. News directors in a market like Seattle get dozens of resume tapes a day all of which are really good. Play up what sets you apart from others. Only YOU can DO YOU. With that said this business is also fickle, one news director may love you, another may tell you you’ll never make it. You must have a strong since of self. Elizabeth Vargas with ABC News was told early in her career that she had no future in this business. Oprah was told her eyes were set too far apart. Just think if they had listened to that nonsense!
Why did you decide to launch your own natural website?
T: In September I feel like I cut off more than my hair. That big chop was the beginning of a metamorphosis for me. I grew up on fast food – I went on my first diet at 8 years old. No more fad diets or quick gimmicks. My site will delve deep into all things natural for women of color. Food, fitness, family, fashion and focus. We’ll have entertaining and informative info from experts, your favorite celebrities and successful inspiring women! Readers will also follow me as I take on some fun but unconventional forms of exercise, like skiing, bikram yoga and swimming. (I’ll be taking my first swimming lesson in January!)
Check out Tonya’s site @ www.newnaturalista.com
“My name is Tonya Mosley and I’m a reporter for KING 5 News, the NBC affiliate in Seattle, WA…
I’m transitioning; I haven’t had a relaxer since June — which isn’t really a long time, but for me it is! For me, relaxed hair is what’s “expected” since I’m on television. At the same time, I often think I and (our culture) imposed these standards, no one ever told me I had to relax my hair.
Several years ago a photographer commented on my relaxed hair and wondered why I went through such pains…and although I could understand what he was asking me, there was no way I’d stop! Then, I had a daughter…and everything changed.
My daughter is two years old, and was born with a head full of hair. From the moment she was born I heard comments like, “She had good hair.” The comments continued on — my family would often wonder if I was going to “do something” about her wild natural curls. I thought they were beautiful…and I wondered where on earth she got this wonderful hair! I realized one day while looking at a photo of myself as a baby, that maybe she got this beautiful hair from me. It made me sad to think that I honestly don’t know what my real texture is like. I started getting relaxers when I was 8…and the longest I’ve ever gone is two months without one.
Today, I’m taking the leap. Your website is wonderful, it keeps me inspired. Who knows what the reaction will be among my viewers, but now that I’ve turned the tide, I just can’t go back.” ~Tonya
I asked Tonya some additional questions to get the full story.
How long have you been in TV? How did you get your big break into TV journalism?
TM: I’ve been in television for 12 years. I started off behind the scenes as a producer and in 2001 crossed over into on air work. I’ve worked my way up through several small markets before ending up here in Seattle.
If there was no person explicitly telling you “you must relax”, why did you still feel that pressure?
TM: I felt (feel) the pressure to relax because I haven’t seen anyone on TV “natural.” When I was in college I remember being floored after seeing Farai Chideya as an ABC correspondent; she had braids and it was the first time in my generation that I’d seen someone on TV like that. Even back then I thought, “She’s Farai, an author and well established, SHE can do that.”
How do you plan to complete your transition? Will it be gradual or will you do a big chop?
TM: I wrestle with this question everyday. I’m currently wearing my hair in cornrows and wearing a wig on television. As a rule, I’ve never been into fake hair or weaves, (I’ve always said I have a bohemian spirit) so this part of it bothers me. I sort of feel like I’m wearing this wig as a way to “buy time” and sort out my thoughts on how exactly I want to go about it.
You hear the ‘behind-the-screen’ conversations black female TV presenters have. What are their concerns/thoughts when it comes to hair?
TM: I don’t think I’ve ever had in depth conversations about hair, but I can tell you one of the first things a black female reporter does when she moves to a new city is find a hair dresser. My first TV market was Fort Wayne, Indiana, and I used to drive to Chicago every 8 weeks to get a relaxer!
It seems TV reporting is one of the last walls to tumble for professional natural women. Do you think change is possible in this field?
TM: I sure hope so. I’ve heard stories in the past of news directors telling black reporters to get relaxers and weaves..and while this has never happened to me, I fear it, especially with my new decision. On the same token, I’ve already had the discussion about my hair with my current boss, and he gave me his blessing and said quote, “I would never want you to do something that was unhealthy for you and from what I hear it (relaxer) isn’t healthy. I’m all for it.” That was all I needed really, just the affirmation that I wouldn’t get fired!
I think overall this profession is slowly getting to a point where natural hair will be accepted. For so long television news was dominated by white men. Women (of all races) as well as minority men and women have had to undergo a lot over the years…slowly we’re seeing changes.
Thank you, Tonya, for your courage in sharing your story. For more of Tonya check out her professional bio here.
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She has a pretty face with the TWA. Cute
CONGRATULATIONS Tonya! You look fabulous. Although I believe that natural hair shouldn’t be limited by market, I can’t help but think that Seattle viewers won’t get too upset. I know I’m generalizing based on the one time I visited…lol…I just loved how cool the people were.
And I completely co-sign with Dreamlover225. The world (okay, mainstream media and the people who are stupid enough to go along with it) has told us that we’re not good enough as we are. I’m really over black women hanging their heads…I need more of us to hold them up high without apology. I need more of us to be ourselves without apology. A LOT of people (all genders and races) think we’re amazing. I need to see us think that way about ourselves as well.
Tonya, I agree with you as well. It’s very important for young girls to see someone that looks like them. However, Oprah did not wait for someone to give her permission to be in the public eye. It was her dream and she simply pursued it. She did not hold out for the media ’embrace’ of women with her physical features. I feel like as naturals we sometimes wait for the media to say “Oh, now it’s okay for a natural woman to be successful in such and such pubic arena.” I just need to DO IT and stop looking for subliminal acceptance.
Dreamlover225,
I completely agree with you – but I think at the same time it’s so important to have representation in mainstream media. Here’s a related example of why. I can remember vividly the day I saw Oprah on television. I was 8 years old and a commercial came on announcing her new show. The commercial had people on the street saying “Orpha, Oka, Ophie?” Then Oprah’s face popped up and she said, “It’s Oprah! Starting this fall at 4pm” There she was brown-skinned, full figured and full of energy. She reminded me of myself…and I honestly think that was the day I knew I could be who I am today. It really makes me feel great when my daughter watches “Yo Gabba Gabba” or “Jack’s Music Show” and there are little brown-skinned girls with natural hair jumping and dancing around. She sees herself on tv which makes her inclusive – included. It’s not about affirmation, it’s about representing all types of “beautiful.”
Leila, maybe this is something that you can address. Too often, I hear natural women complain about how there is a lack of representation of natural hair in the media. I wholeheartedly agree that this is true. However, we as natural women cannot look to the media for affirmation. I’m learning that in the entertainment industry, there won’t be many women that look like me. Regardless, I have to just be about it.
Like for instance, Amber Rose. How many bald women are paraded as sexy and feminine? I personally can’t think of any except for this woman. If a woman is bald, she is usually seen as a work of art or very masculine. How can a woman look to rappers and magazines to affirm the beauty of baldness for her?
At the end of the day, I have to just DO ME. The media won’t affirm my beauty, rappers won’t put girls like me in the music videos, etc. I’m not going to complain anymore. I have to know within myself that I am fly. I’m not claiming to be unaffected by other’s opinions, but I have to DO ME.
This is a case of natural hair ”drawing up” the features. Prettylicious. Bravo !!
Great update, she seems quite positive.
I love these inspiring interviews, Tonya, you and your daughter are beautiful.
I hate when stylist refuse to cut hair, they do it all the time. Mind your business. Ugh.
Anywhoo, congrats on the big chop enjoy your journey!
Tonya I just seen you on the 5pm news reporting! You look so cute!!! I love it! Love Love Love the hair. It's refreshing to see a natural look on the news. Joyce and Angela and the NWCN lady have the same 'look'. You stay with that new look!
It seems like you may have done the big chop because I just saw you on the news and had to google to see if you cut your hair! Good for you for going natural.
I always used to love seeing Alison Stewart reporting the news on TV (MTV, CBS, etc.). She never chopped, but she was always sporting the natural curls.
great interview! best of luck to you tonya!
I'm natural and a broadcast journalism major so this is something i think about b/c I could end up in front of the camera so day. I've met potential employers in the broadcast industry and they have no probem with my big fro.
OMG I learned more about my hair from my children too who came out with this slick, curly hair and people have been saying that I have "that good hair" since I was little. Someone said it today infact.
When I tell some people about my decision to grow my hair out they do a hair analysis like:
"Hmmm can I accept your level of nappiness?"
Then, based on whatever they have seen like the length of my hair, previous times when I needed a touch up or sometimes even my complexion; they give me the green light or they make the I smell poo face.
I always thought that I may have "good" hair" but I was only making it better by perming it.
I will never forget seeing that beautiful actress that played the wife on Hotel Rwanda and at an award show with her natural hair and she was HOT. However, there were no fashion blogs that I saw talking about her the next day.
My daughter (5 yrs) has started asking me to straighten her hair ALL THE TIME!! I tell her her hair is beautiful but how can I say that if she watches mommy get all dolled up with her straight hair and no one looks like her on TV?
When I was younger I honestly have to say that there were no attractive examples of pretty girlie girls (which I am without a doubt) with natural hair. The ones that I would see in-person were usually unkempt, abrasive types or really funky seashell wearing girls, trying make a statement with thier fists in the air. I did not want to be a walking Public Enemy Song. Don't get me wrong I consider myself very stylish and unique but I am not Erykah Badu.
I am not growing my hair out to be more black. I am just trying to be more me and I know now that I have been programed in a lot of ways.
Ever notice how Martin (on his old tv show) alway made the "Beedy bee" and weave jokes about Pam (the dark skinned one) and not Gina (the light skinned one)who wore the same amount of weaves?? For real watch the show again!!
Remember when they were singing "Don't cha know no good?" and Gina and Pam were in Bikinis doing back up?? Who decided that Pam would wear the afro wig and Gina would wear the straight one and why? I digress…
We need more girls with natural hair on Loreal commercials and such because we are worth it too. That's what I am trying to do for my little girl. I started a wall in her room with pics of beautiful natural women. Like Nazri the model from Project Runway. Google her she is hot too!
Good stuff…BGLH!!! Another inspiring story
I live in Seattle and I see her on the news all the time. VERY nice to see she came on here to express herself and did a GREAT interview! I am 'rooting' for you Tonya. My daughter was my inspiration to go natural as well.
Tonya, thank you for answering my question. I completely understand where you're coming from. It's interesting how having children, especially little girls, can be the catalyst for all kinds of positive changes in women's lives. I don't necessarily believe that it's impossible for a mother who's relaxed to instill love of natural hair in her child, but I can't help but think it's a good thing when daughters (and sons!) can see their #1 role model being proud of the hair they were born with. Good luck!
Hi everyone! Thanks for the comments. I'd like to respond to some of them.
@SisterOpinion — I guess I should have clarified my statement about my daughter. What I was trying to convey is that after having my daughter 1. I was overwhelmed by the constant comments about her hair and the need to "do something about it" rather than just letting it be. 2. Raising a daughter opened up my eyes to the fact that I never had the experience of knowing what my natural hair is like. Not only do I NOT want that for my little girl, but I also want to set an example in every way that it's ok to be who you are.
As far as what my hair texture is going to ultimately be like, I think no matter what it will be awesome! This process is more about me coming into my true authentic self. I figure if my hair has been able to stand up to the relaxers, coloring and heat this long and still look fabulous, I can only imagine how awesome and healthy it will be natural.
Black Girl With Long Hair really encapsulated what it's like in this industry. Thanks again for being interested in my story.
That's right Black girls with long hair in Seattle! Ilived there for !1 years adn I remeber her on teh news…It's super cool she's going natural adn I wish her allteh best…BTW I love you blog!!! Much love!
Great interview once again!!!
Tonya you said a mouthful here, "I often think I and (our culture) imposed these standards, no one ever told me I had to relax my hair." The images we see on tv and the magazines don't help either.
If/when you decide to do the big chop I hope you'll let us know and take pics so we can see. 🙂 Kudos to your boss for supporting you as well.
(I'm French so i apaologize for my english ^o^)
It's weird the way she says her daugther have "good hair "…
Is it "good hair "because it's more curly than nappy ?
in my opinion it's not the good way to embrace natural hair .
Great interview! I would be interesting in hearing the HR professional's perspective as well. I'm also interested in the response to SistaOpinion's question. I get so tired of hearing, "I can't go natural, because I don't/won't have the right texture." My sister is one of the main ones who says this to me, and I attribute it to my mom relaxing her hair at such an early age, and always telling her that her hair was too difficult to deal with, and that's why she *had* to relax it. Meanwhile, my sister's edges are getting thinner and thinner, but she just won't stop.
I wish Tonya luck with her transition! I work in insurance (claims), and I don't meet people face to face (although I did at a previous employer). No one ever says anything to me about my hair. Thankfully, it's not a profession where my looks really, really matter, like TV journalism.
@ Jc… i agree that an interview with an HR rep would be REALLY enlightening. I actually contacted a few HR companies several weeks back, but didn't get anyone. I will reach out again and see who I can snag.
Thanks for the suggestion girl 😉
@ Jc… I see where you're coming from, but I also think you should consider the world of journalism.
I'm in print journalism. We don't have to be cute. Nobody sees us. And the same is true for radio and online journalism.
But honestly, TV reporters (I should say FEMALE TV reporters) are chosen for their looks JUST AS MUCH as their abilities. And honestly, sometimes looks SUPERCEDE ability when news directors are deciding who to hire.
Journalism, generally speaking, is a serious hustle. You start in a small market (maybe at a low-population county/neighborhood news outlet) and work your way up till you get to larger markets (Chicago/New York/LA) and eventually to cable news networks (CNN/MSNBC/etc). At every step you are fighting for a spot against hundreds of other hungry journalists. And this is why, when it comes to hair, black women might not want to take a risk. Why risk a rise through the markets on something "experimental" like natural hair? The easiest thing to do is put on the wig, slap on some relaxer or glue in a weave.
You said that you wouldn't want to have a job where your hair wasn't accepted. For MANY natural black women, that means not being in TV news reporting AT ALL. You might get the open-minded news director who allows you to be natural. But the majority will TELL you (literally TELL you) to straighten your hair.
Evening news reporters are supposed to be relatable and professional, and that means straight hair (and this is true of white/hispanic women also. regardless of ethnicity you barely EVER see female TV reporters rocking kinks/curls.)
I have to say that, as a newspaper reporter based in the U.S., I don't take Tonya's decision lightly. After I graduated college in '06 and I was deciding which journalism route to take I opted for radio/print, partially because of my hair. I had just done my big chop and knew news directors weren't going to be patient as I figured out how to do a neat twist-out or perfect my french braid.
I remember when I was breaking into journalism I spoke with a Chicago-based TV news reporter who is dark-skinned. She told me, in no uncertain terms, that she was already "pushing it" by being dark and she sure as hell wasn't going to rock the boat anymore by being natural.
There is still a lot of sexism/colorism in TV news. I won't even get into the fact that ugly men with nice voices can be TV news reporters but ugly women with nice voices CANNOT. Suffice it to say that any move to shake up the status quo when it comes to TV news reporting is, to me, a welcome move. And I applaud Tonya for her decision.
@ Sistaopinion, I think that's an interesting point you raise. I'm sure Tonya will be checking in on this post and might have a response.
Love this blog! Great interview! Good Luck Tonya! I am in the exact same position except for the reporter thing-lol. I am transitioning and have not had chemicals on hair since June. I am just starting to see what my natural texture looks like and I am excited.
I have seen a succession of topics which I have not commented on. I guess I have stopped commenting because I have reached a point in my own journey where I don't need to hear that it is ok to be natural or that natural hair needs to be accepted. This is not to say that this message is not necessary for others, it is simply not necessary for me.
In my opinion, if an employer would say to me that I couldn't have a job unless I changed my hair, then I wouldn't want that job anyway. My hair is a strong part of my identity and I sincerely do not need anyone to acknowledge to me that it is fine to have it, I KNOW that it is fine.
In one of your older posts (the natural hair in the workplace series), there was a powerful conclusion – there are many of us working in many different professions with our natural hair, we got there not because of hair but because of our brains.
I do applaud the efforts of this blog though and I do certainly hope that one day others will reach a point similar to mine where the world really does not need to like or accept your natural hair.
While I am here, I would like to make a suggestion. I would like to see an interview with an employer or someone from HR to get their view on natural hair. I would prefer it also to be someone who may not know what natural hair is. We can make an effort to educate from all angles.
Loved the interview! Tonya, I went to Mizzou, too!
Okay, I'm gonna be really real here:
If she goes natural and she finds out she DOESN'T have her daughter's hair texture — specifically, if it's nappier than she thought — will she go back to the relaxer?
Speaking generally here (not to pick on Tonya): We need to discourage this unspoken notion that only certain women "can" be natural.
Great interview!! I look at my daughter's hair and wonder where she gets her texture from since her hair is really fine. I've heard that good hair stuff about her hair too and I quickly correct people that nothing is wrong with natural hair. I've had one ignorant comment from a hair stylist who wondered if I was letting her stay natural like me after he pretty much butchered my scalp and I just politely smiled. Yes. * he snorted like," I can't believe you'll put your child's hair though that. >_>
*Tonya looks beautiful without that straight hair too*
Good luck Tonya…you can do it!@
Tonya.. from one reporter to the next, I think your decision is AWESOME! A clear path needs to be paved for natural women in TV news and I'm excited that you want to be a part of that.