allthecanadianpolitics:

allthecanadianpolitics:

Seth Cardinal Dodginghorse from the Tsuut’ina First Nation cuts off his braided hair in response to Calgary’s Ring Road being built which has required his home be destroyed (the home has been in the family for 5 generations).

More information here:

https://allthecanadianpolitics.tumblr.com/post/630813216638910464/tsuutina-man-cuts-off-braids-in-protest-as

Video source:

https://twitter.com/Tommy_Slick/status/1311762466414632960

Tagging: @politicsofcanada

This is important context:

Long Hair in Native American Culture

What does cutting the hair signify?

Many tribes cut their hair when there is a death in the immediate family as an outward symbol of the deep sadness and a physical reminder of the loss. The cut hair represents the time with their loved one, which is over and gone, and the new growth is the life after.

The cutting of hair can also signify separating from past actions or thoughts. When a Native American cuts their hair, the hair is often treated with respect. It can be placed into a flowing river, buried, or burned.