There’s a new campaign making waves on social media, and this time it has nothing to do with body positivity. #BlackHairIsProfessional is an effort by both Dove and LinkedIn to make a systemic impact in the workplace and create more inclusive spaces for natural hairstyles. This campaign is aimed at overturning the misconception that natural black hair cannot be considered professional hair.
Changing Policies That Discriminate
While change continues to be championed in the beauty industry for women of color; there are still many challenges that black women and even young girls face when it comes to their hair. For years, black individuals have had to fit certain professional standards in the corporate world, including complying with restrictive dress codes and hairstyles.
And while there are many barriers that female entrepreneurs and professional women of color have to face, this specific one has been highlighted and brought to the forefront. Since there is no legal protection against hair discrimination at a national level, Black people are constantly put in the difficult position of deciding to potentially face penalties for their natural hairstyle.
Numerous policies have been put into effect over the decades that forbid traditional hairstyles such as afros, braids, bantu knots and locs. In fact, it’s not uncommon for black women to be told that natural hairstyles – such as afros, dreadlocks or braids – are “unprofessional” or “inappropriate” for the workplace.
This type of discrimination perpetuates an idea of what is acceptable and what isn’t based on a narrow definition of beauty and professionalism. What has been masquerading as a normal standard of procedure for years is in reality a way to disrupt both black children and adults from the workplace and schools.
Despite having countless styles at their disposal, many of which are neat and sleek and appropriate for a corporate setting, they are still met with criticism or even dismissal when rocking their natural hair.
Black women have long been expected to conform to corporate standards of appearance. This often include straightening or chemically altering their hair into styles deemed professional. This has been a longstanding issue for black women. This is why #BlackHairIsProfessional Campaign is so impactful: It strives to put an end to discrimination based on one’s hair texture.
The Crown Coalition
The CROWN Coalition is an alliance between Dove, the National Urban League, Color Of Change and Western Center on Law & Poverty.
Created with a single goal in mind – to put a stop to racial hair-based discrimination in America. CROWN stands for Create a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair. The coalition aims to accelerate the adoption of CROWN Act legislation in all 50 states, making it illegal to discriminate against people based on
We must continue to advocate for legislative protection against hair discrimination in the workplace and educational institutions. Every person has the right to their natural hair texture and chosen hairstyles regardless of societal norms. And the CROWN Act would accomplish just that!
From its conception, this mission has strived to create a more equitable atmosphere for African-American women and girls with regards to beauty standards. Even today, that unwavering commitment remains undiminished.
Making Small Changes And Big Impacts
The CROWN Act has already been passed into law in 17 states with California being the first to push it through. But still there’s a way to go. The efforts to put the CROWN Act into effect, has been successful in seven states so far. This Act would prevents employers from discriminating against black women based on their hair texture or hairstyles.
The CROWN Act is essential in eradicating persistent racial injustices, such as discrimination based on hair texture and style, which has significant economic repercussions for Black people. This law rectifies the longstanding disparity by making it illegal to discriminate against someone because of their hairstyle or texture.
The Coalition published actionable steps for employers to take when it comes to addressing standards of appearance in the workplace. These steps include educating managers on how to nurture an inclusive environment.
This means allowing for differences to be embraced. The goal is to provide employees the natural right to feel comfortable wearing their hair naturally. Also creating safe spaces for discussions on how racism plays out in employee interactions.
If you want to help end hair discrimination in schools, the workplace and public spaces, sign this petition to support the Crown Coalition Act.
Impactful Changes To Corporate Culture
Continuing on in the same fight, this new partnership between Dove and LinkedIn will further educate employers on creating a more inclusive workplace. It provides companies with essential tools and resources needed to combat hair discrimination in the workplace.
This has led to a number of accomplishments, including the launch of LinkedIn’s ‘Inclusive Workplace Series’ which offers resources and guidance on how employers can promote diversity and inclusion in their workplace. Their efforts to raise awareness about this important issue and sparked an ongoing conversation on natural hair in professional spaces.
Taking Back The Crown
The campaign has already made a significant impact on workplace culture for many businesses. This is an important step forward in creating an environment where all employees can feel comfortable with their individual style. Furthermore, it sends the message that diversity is to be embraced and celebrated in the workplace.
In addition to this, the campaign also provides resources to help employers adopt more inclusive hair policies. It offers tools for employees too who may find themselves facing discrimination based on their hair choices. It is a powerful reminder that we should all strive for equality and inclusivity.
More Inclusivity
Dove and LinkedIn are partnering to eradicate the outdated notion of professional hair. Ultimately, the goal is to help to create an environment where everyone can feel accepted and embrace their individual beauty. This type of movement is essential in creating a more equitable workplace culture.
This campaign has opened up conversations around this issue. Helping to challenge the outdated notion that only certain hairstyles can be professional. The brand and business network encourages organizations to provide more guidance for employers. Additionally, educating on how best to support all employees, regardless of the texture of their hair.
Through this effort, Dove and LinkedIn are working to empower more women of color. To embrace their natural beauty and challenge traditional workplace standards that may not be inclusive for everyone. This campaign will hopefully lead to long-term systemic change in the corporate sphere and create spaces where black women can bring their full selves.
The conversation around professional hair is important. It highlights how the corporate world can be exclusionary for those with a different style of hair. Hair discrimination can be a real problem for many people. Furthermore it is crucial to recognize the disparities that still exist in the workplace, but also other places too. Challenging outdated notions of professional hair is key. We must continue to pave the way towards creating an environment where everyone feels accepted and able to embrace their individual beauty. This is essential in fostering a more equitable workplace culture.
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