More than half of Black Britons say discrimination against their natural hair has negatively impacted their self-esteem and mental well-being, according to new research.
L’myah Sherae, founder of Enact Equality, a nonprofit focused on policy change, recently launched the Afro Hair Discrimination Reporting Platform to help those affected by this widespread issue.
Hair discrimination, especially against Afro-textured hair, refers to bias against hairstyles like locs, braids, twists, and afros. This can range from overt racism—where individuals are labeled as “untidy” or “unprofessional”—to institutional barriers like school uniform policies or job opportunities being impacted by hair type.
A study by Pantene, Black Minds Matter, and Project Embrace found that 93% of Black people in the UK have experienced microaggressions related to their Afro hair. Common settings for this discrimination include schools (59%), workplaces (49%), and job interviews (45%). Additionally, 52% of respondents said hair discrimination affected their mental health.
The beauty and hair care industries can play a crucial role by promoting inclusivity and celebrating Afro hairstyles. Brands can use their platforms to showcase Afro-textured hair and ensure diverse representation in media and advertising. Authentic representation can shift public perception and inspire greater acceptance of diverse beauty standards.
Sherae encourages brands to ask themselves whether their products and marketing are truly inclusive. Brands should collaborate with advocacy groups, fund research, and support anti-discrimination policies to create a more inclusive environment for all consumers.
Enact Equality’s new Afro Hair Discrimination Reporting Platform offers individuals a secure space to report hair-related discrimination and access free legal advice. The platform also gathers data to help drive policy changes and raise awareness of this issue.
By amplifying the voices of those affected, Enact Equality aims to create a society where everyone’s identity is respected and Afro hair discrimination is no longer tolerated.
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