African-American women can gain inspiration from the story of hair-care pioneer Madam C. J. Walker -- and information about the health and safety of some of the modern cosmetic and salon products in use.
Women for a Healthy Environment is sponsoring what leader Michelle Naccarati-Chapkis says is the first
Pittsburgh appearance of Walker biographer (and granddaughter) A'Lelia Bundles, set for
Oct. 11 at the August Wilson Center.
"Redefining Business & Beauty: Lessons from the Life and Legacy of Madam C.J. Walker," will feature Bundles speaking about Walker's rise to the top, beginning right here in Pittsburgh, as "a woman who was not only an entrepreneur but a philanthropist and a social activist," says Naccarati-Chapkis. Bundles will also speak to cosmetology students at Oliver High School that day.
Adding information about the environmental dangers of certain beauty products is important, says Naccarati-Chapkis. The Campaign for Healthy Cosmetics reports that $5.7 billion is spent yearly by African American women on beauty and salon products. "We know there are toxins in some of the products being targeted to women of color," she says. A panel discussion after Bundles' talk will offer tips for avoiding harmful substances. The event will also include the chance to purchase natural and eco-friendly products by Ujamaa Collective and Third Day Luxury Soaps.
Source: Michelle Naccarati-Chapkis, Women for a Healthy Environment