Dispelling Blonde Stereotypes

I have the R93C in the TYRP1 gene; it’s a gene sequence called KIT ligand. Only two percent of people in the world carry this gene. This gene alone is a significant component of my identity, and because of this gene, I have been misjudged throughout my life. This gene gave me my hair color. My hair completes my appearance. The amount of hours I spend manipulating my hair is astronomical. But, it is a sacrifice I am willing to make. As crazy as it sounds, my hair defines who I am. In some instances, my hair color even decides my own fate and reduces my likelihood of obtaining opportunities. 

I am not ashamed nor self-conscious of my hair, but instead I feel dignified and honored to represent such a minuscule handful of individuals. There are multiple stereotypes that revolve around the blonde female persona. Our society assumes that all blondes who walk this earth should be deemed as senseless and incompetent. The “dumb blonde” stereotype resides in an everlasting line of misogynist fallacies which serve to suppress and pigeonhole blonde women. The humiliation and ignominy that follow these stereotypes then imprint lasting negative impressions on blonde women’s self-worth and overall image. However, blonde women are given a drastically divergent title as well: the “blondes have more fun” stereotype. 

Deeply rooted into the foundation of our societal standards are these ludicrous and quixotic expectations for blonde women. This scrutinization results in an overpowering amount of pressure that blonde women must endure to compete with their darker-haired counterparts. 

Personally, the stereotypes and judgements that are associated with my hair color have only illustrated just how remarkable and momentous my life can be. It is my underlining mission to abide by the “blondes have more fun” societal standard, but to abolish and debunk the “dumb blonde” stereotype. I manifest to my family, friends, and teachers that the intricacy and allurement of life deserves to be recognized. I work diligently and toil through my everyday tasks to be the best that I can be. I devote a mass amount of time, energy and effort into my work primarily due to my morals and ethics, but also to prove my capability and personal drive to succeed. My passions and motivations allow me to have fun with everything that I do. I am happy. I choose to be positive and live a life with purpose. 

My ambitions and aspirations have showcased that life is truly about living, learning, and supporting others. My identity would not be complete without my blondeness. Being blonde is more about my own life philosophy and embracing my inner spirit, rather than associating with promiscuity, gold-digging, and naked self-interest as the media historically perceives blonde women.