I don't know I can only speak for myself. My descion to go natural was not based on a trend but on the simple fact that I saw people on youtube and I would how their hair would shrink up and they could stretch to a length you wouldn't even expect. Also watching them moisturize their hair. I also wanted to go natural cause I was tired of thin limp relaxed hair and all that came with it. I wanted thick hair with versatility so I cut.
I can't wait to move back to MD. Natural hair is so much more accepted there.
I did see quite a few naturals when I was working in Dallas but where I live I don't see any. I see the same weaved up dry thirsty relaxed hair..that is the sad norm.
I can't speak for everyone, but this isn't a fad for me. I have no intention of relaxing my hair ever again. On my mom's side of the family we all have natural hair. I see so many natural haired ladies in Boston and Cambridge that its inspiring.
I think people are more aware that relaxers are not the only option. Now we have gels, mousse, styling products, flat irons, BKT, etc. Back in the 70s all we had was Vaseline and cheap conditioners.