INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Tricoci University of Beauty Culture highlighted the cultural and historical significance of African hair braiding Monday as part of Black History Month. Rep. Tempest Golden and models Patricia Germany and Jewel Patterson demonstrated how the traditional art form has evolved into modern forms of self-expression and protective styling.

The demonstration emphasized that hair braiding is deeply rooted in African culture, where it historically signified age, religion, marital status and social rank. Tricoci University, founded in 2004, aims to meet growing demand for upscale salon professionals by teaching advanced technical skills alongside traditional cosmetology training.

Hair braiding spans centuries and has been used as a method of communication and surviva...