Sensitive question for women of color😕

Nicole

I don't want to even post this, I'm so nervous if back lash... Please no judge or harsh rude comments. This is pure concern and curiosity and I in NO WAY mean to offend ANYONE! So here goes... I am mainly Spanish and Sicilian and have very thick, course wavy, poofy hair. In hot weather I often keep it braided or in cornrows. I love box braids and having different colors braided in on the ends. It's beautiful and helpful to keep my hair from becoming a rats nest. I am also extremely dry and try to only wash it once a week. Less if possible. A Dominican girlfriend of mine doesn't see an issue with me doing this, but has warned me that a lot of ladies find it offensive and rude. It never had occurred to me that it would hurt any feelings. So my question for my beautiful ladies if color is, is this true? I feel terrible and ignorant that I may have been offending people for years and didn't know. Does this truly hurt you all or are just a few people overly sensitive about it? And if so... Why? Again, just very curious! My friends and family members of color didn't have an answer as to why. I would never claim to be black even though I my great grandfather is south african. I don't feel it's right since I have never had to deal with the struggles and hardships that they have and feel like it's unfair to claim that I have. Anyway this is turning into a VERY long post but I am hoping to gain some knowledge and clarity! Do I need to give up my braids? Or is it no big deal? Again... Please be nice! I come in peace! 😁