In a memorable episode from the 1994 TV sitcom “Living Single,” Kyle, a stockbroker, voiced his frustration over how his natural hair might be hindering his career advancement. “My hair is not just for fashion; it’s part of my heritage,” he declared, emphasizing its significance as a statement of pride.
Three decades later, the struggle for Black individuals to express their natural hair in professional and academic settings remains pronounced. The episode, titled “Hair-Razing Experience,” continues to resonate as Black individuals grapple with the challenge of conforming to traditional standards of “professional” appearance, which have historically been based on Eurocentric ideals.
In Colorado, progress is evident as the natural hair movement gains momentum. Manushkka Sainvil, the founder of Chubby Curls, a brand specializing in products for textured hair, asserts that professional appearance should not be defined by hair texture. “The most important aspect is that your hair is clean,” she states, advocating for a broader understanding of what constitutes acceptable professional hair.
The CROWN Act (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair), enacted in Colorado in 2020, represents a significant step forward. This legislation prohibits discrimination based on hair texture, type, or protective hairstyles commonly associated with race. To date, 22 states have adopted similar measures, underscoring the importance of hair in the Black community.
Prominent Black figures are leading the charge in normalizing natural hair. Last week, at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Omarosa Manigault Newman made headlines by sporting a traditional Black hairstyle, diverging from her previous preference for straightened hair. This change, coupled with her shift in political stance, sparked discussion about her evolving identity.
Democratic Representative Leslie Herod of Denver, a sponsor of the CROWN Act, recalls being discouraged from wearing her natural hair in public during her youth. Herod’s experience reflects a broader societal shift towards embracing natural textures and styles.
The movement towards natural hair is not limited to women. Men are also embracing their natural textures with increasing confidence. Lance Grace, a Denver-based mental health therapist, wears his neck-length dreadlocks, or locs, as a form of self-expression linked to Black history and personal well-being. Despite occasional negative reactions, Grace finds that his professionalism and appearance are well-regarded.
Grace advises young Black men embarking on a loc journey to embrace their identity and remain proud, despite potential discrimination. “Be proud of who you are,” he encourages, emphasizing that self-expression and individuality are vital in professional and educational environments.
The impact of discriminatory practices is still evident. In 2019, a white referee in New Jersey controversially forced a young Black wrestler to cut his dreadlocks before a match, an incident that garnered widespread criticism. The CROWN Act was subsequently signed into law in New Jersey later that year, marking a step towards combating such injustices.