Hair Discrimination in NYC?

In February, New York City created a guideline against the discrimination of natural hairstyles. New York CIty’s Commission on Human Rights has made and passed a mandate stating that no discrimination is allowed against persons with natural hairstyle, including dreadlocks, cornrows and braids. Someone’s hair is now protected just as someone’s race, ethnicity, gender or other cultural factor in NYC.

Discrimination against these hairstyles will result in the issuing of fines. Although these guidelines apply to all people, they were specifically created to protect black men, women, and children. Discrimination can be shown in job interviews, the workforce, at social gatherings, in schools, and at other public places. People have been known to lose jobs and been banned from restaurants and other public places because of their hair. NYC is one of the first of legal guidelines such as these all over the country.

According to CBS News New York, Human Rights Commission Chairwoman Carmelyn P. Malalis tweeted “Hair is a part of you. Race discrimination based on hair is illegal in NYC,” shortly after releasing these new guidelines. The guidance warned businesses and other work environments that they could face legal troubles for discrimination against common hairstyles associated with black individuals or for ordering black workers to straighten their hair.

Why has discrimination against black culture become so disrespectful, unorderly and outrageous that guidelines must be implemented in order to permit the embracement of natural hair? Let us sit back to learn and appreciate why people want to embody their natural hair.

It was what they were born with

>>>>>Natural hair is exactly what it sounds like. Natural. Black people were born with these hair types and textures; to change them would be unnatural.

Connection to culture

>>>>>>Natural hair is a huge part of the African-American community and culture. Natural hair is representation of that culture and heritage.

Health

>>>>>Natural hair, when taken care of properly, is very healthy and can help lead to a healthy lifestyle.

Accepting your beauty

>>>>>Your natural hair is a part of you! Accepting your natural features embracing the acceptance of yourself and your natural beauty while learning to love yourself.

Inspiration

>>>>>Wearing your natural hair can inspire others to do the same. Seeing someone else with hair like yours also creates new bonds and connections.