When promotional images for the “Born This Way” episode of Glee surfaced, featuring Mercedes Jones sporting a “No Weave” t-shirt, there was a palpable buzz among viewers. As a dedicated follower of Mercedes’ journey, I, like many others, felt a surge of excitement. It seemed like the show was poised to delve into a topic of cultural significance and personal relevance for Mercedes: her hair and the conversation surrounding weaves within the Black community.
Mercedes Jones from Glee proudly wears a “No Weave” t-shirt in a promotional image for the “Born This Way” episode, hinting at a storyline about natural hair and self-acceptance.
The anticipation was that the episode would dedicate at least a moment to explaining the powerful statement Mercedes was making. Many hoped for dialogue exploring why she chose to wear the shirt, what it meant to her personally, and how it tied into her journey of self-acceptance – a central theme of the “Born This Way” episode itself. For viewers unfamiliar with the nuances of Black hair culture, it presented an opportunity for education and understanding. For those who were familiar, it offered a chance for representation and validation on mainstream television.
This anticipation stemmed from the understanding that hair is often more than just hair, especially for Black women. The decision to wear natural hair, weaves, or other styles can be deeply intertwined with identity, self-esteem, and societal pressures. The “No Weave” shirt had the potential to spark meaningful conversations about these complexities, much like the episode aimed to address broader issues of self-acceptance and embracing individuality.
Personally, the prospect of Glee addressing this topic resonated deeply. While my own hair experiences differ, I recognize the universal struggle with self-image and the courage it takes to embrace one’s authentic self. Moreover, thinking about family members navigating the hair journeys of their children, particularly in transracial adoptions, highlighted the broader need for these conversations. The show could have offered valuable insights and relatable moments for a wide audience.
In retrospect, the decision to not address the “No Weave” shirt directly feels like a missed opportunity. While the “Born This Way” episode tackled important themes, weaving in Mercedes’ hair journey would have added another layer of depth and relevance. Perhaps, in an episode already packed with storylines, screen time was a premium. However, one can’t help but wonder if a slight trim to less crucial scenes, even the admittedly impressive musical numbers like Kurt’s “As If We Never Said Goodbye,” could have made space for a brief but impactful exploration of Mercedes’ “No Weave” statement.
Imagine if, alongside the episode’s empowering message of self-acceptance, there had been a moment where Mercedes articulated her reasons for wearing the shirt. It could have been a simple line, a brief conversation, or even a poignant glance in the mirror. Such a moment would not only have resonated with viewers on a personal level but also amplified the episode’s core message, demonstrating that embracing who you are extends to every facet of your identity – even your hair. By not seizing this opportunity, Glee missed a chance to provide a more nuanced and deeply impactful message about self-acceptance and representation through Mercedes’ character.
