Dhebi a Tugoin

The Mursi tribe of Ethiopia is a great example of cultural diversity expressions, showing the differences in perception regarding beauty.

Mursi women are known to wear wooden lip plates for ceremonies and occasions, signifying beauty and identity. When a Mursi teen reaches the age of 16, her lower lip is cut by her mother and held open until it heals. Although a painful experience, the lip plate carries two meanings; not only is it a sign of beauty, but it also represents a commitment to her husband. If the husband dies, the plate will be removed to demonstrate that her external beauty is fading away