In Alice Walker’s short story “Everyday Use,” Dee (or Wangero, as she prefers to be called) arrives at her mother and sister Maggie’s home accompanied by a man referred to as Hakim-a-barber. He is presented as Dee’s companion, though the exact nature of their relationship is left somewhat ambiguous. He embraces a similar, though perhaps less fervent, interest in African heritage as Dee.
Hakim-a-barber’s presence is significant for several reasons. He serves as a foil to Dee, highlighting her often performative embrace of her heritage. His interactions with the family, particularly his awkward attempts at connection and his dietary restrictions, further underscore the cultural divide between Dee and her family. His presence also adds another layer of tension to the story, particularly during the climax involving the quilts. Understanding his role offers valuable insight into Dee’s character and the story’s central themes of heritage, identity, and family. The character exemplifies the complexities of cultural appropriation and the varying approaches to reclaiming one’s heritage.
