op-ed: funny facts – being a black backpacker

I started a long journey in September 2014. I spent five months in Melbourne (Australia), six months in Queensland (Australia), one month around Indonesia and one month around Thailand. I heard so many comments about my hair, my color. In Thailand, people asked me if they could touch me. It was indeed really cute and I was charmed by their open mindedness and willingness to know more. In Indonesia, I was nicknamed “alien” by locals because of my hair style “bantu knots”. People liked it and wanted me to do their hair. It was awesome, I felt different and unique, in a good way. In Australia, it is an another story. Ignorance melted with prejudice and racism. I would like to share with you some funny facts, things I was told and experienced. ENJOY!!!!

By Binta Talla, AFROPUNK Contributor

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(Photo credit: Grzegorz Wala)

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What to do with my hair #WhatIsKinkyHair  #$300ForTwoBraids

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“So, were you born with your braids?”  #AreYouKiddingMe

Doing a fashion show, shooting a movie and having the make up artist put white foundation on your skin #Ghost

“You are way too dark for the fashion industry” #F*** U

0,001% of black people #IFoundYou

Trying to fight aquaphobia at the beach and see a shark #Gloups

Giving a second chance and being said that there might be crocodiles around #HeartAttack

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Trying to fit your braids in your swimming cap #SquidHead

Trying to be sexy in your towel, but sea salt left your skin white as snow #WhereIsMyBodyLotion

Being chased in the streets by Serena Willams Fans#Serena.gets.an.afro.after.matches.

The best for last:

You look exactly like Rihanna

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