Hair Story, Poetry, and Power with Maria James-Thiaw

In this episode of Coffee with E, host Erica Rawls sits down with Maria James-Thiaw, poet, playwright, professor, and author of Hair Story: Reclaiming Our Crown.

They dive into the deeper meaning behind hair from tribal identity in African culture to the pain of hair-based discrimination in modern America. Maria opens up about:

• Writing during COVID while raising two kids with special needs
• Why poetry became her way to process grief, racism, and isolation
• Shocking stories uncovered while researching Hair Story, including relaxers used without consent
• The importance of self-worth, cultural heritage, and passing on hair pride to the next generation

This conversation is for anyone ready to unpack the truth behind hair, identity, and healing. Whether you’re a creative, a parent, an ally, or someone seeking wholeness, this one’s for you.  

📚 Purchase Maria’s books: https://bookshop.org/shop/Maria-James-Thiaw

🌐 Learn more at Reclaim Arts: http://www.reclaimarts.com

📲 Follow Maria on Instagram: @reclaimarts (https://www.instagram.com/reclaimarts)

🎧 If this episode moved you, leave a review or share it with someone who needs to hear it.

#HairStory #BlackHairMatters #CrownAct #CulturalIdentity #CoffeeWithE #PoetryAndPurpose #ReclaimYourCrown #LatinaVoices #WomenInLeadership #EricaRawls

Send us a text

Follow Us for More Inspiration:

📸 Instagram: @erica.rawls
🎥 YouTube: Erica Rawls
📧 For inquiries and collaborations: [email protected]

✨ Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated with our latest episodes!