Ep 3. Of Papers and Patois

Da Kink In My Hair is a famed Canadian show that tells the stories of various women and their experiences in the world. The show is known for its unique perspective on issues related to women of color and their place in society. Season 2 Episode 3 of the show is named "Of Papers and Patois".

The episode follows the story of a young Jamaican woman named Patrice. Patrice is an undocumented immigrant who works at the salon and dreams of starting her own business one day. Her situation is made more complicated by the uncertain legal status she is living under. She is constantly afraid of getting caught and deported, which can be a devastating loss for her.

As she navigates the challenges of being an undocumented immigrant, Patrice experiences several setbacks. Her salon job does not pay well, and her boss, Novelette, is often dismissive of her needs. Her relationship with her boyfriend, Simon, is also taking a toll on her emotional wellbeing. Simon is not as ambitious as she is, which creates constant tension between them. Simon’s partying lifestyle is also a significant source of concern for Patrice.

Despite all these challenges, Patrice is determined to stay optimistic about her future. Her dreams of starting her own business keep her going, and she begins to put together a plan of action. With the help of the women in the salon, she begins to learn more about the entrepreneurial landscape in Toronto. She starts researching different grants that may be available to her and begins to put together a business plan.

As she works on her plan, Patrice also gets some unexpected help from her neighbor, an elderly Jamaican man named Mr. Moses. He agrees to invest in her business, which gives her the financial support she needs to get started. With this support, Patrice is able to take her first few steps towards her dream.

While the focus of the episode is on Patrice, other characters also have their own stories that are weaved into the plotline. The salon's owner, Novelette, has to deal with a difficult customer who refuses to pay for her services. The circumstance that unfolds between Novelette and the customer showcases the nuanced understanding of the women's experiences and the forces that affect their lives. Meanwhile, several other characters also reflect on their past experiences, including the salon's receptionist, who shares her harrowing experience with domestic abuse.

Overall, "Of Papers and Patois" is a poignant episode that offers an insightful and relatable exploration of the challenges and aspirations of women of color. The show’s deft balancing of various narratives offers a snapshot of life in Toronto and serves as a tribute to the resilience and determination of women living under challenging circumstances. Ultimately, the episode underscores that even in the most challenging of circumstances, it is possible to move forward and achieve one’s dreams with the right support and commitment.