Natural Hair styles in the work place has been a controversial topic that has affected many men and women in the working world. Whether professionals are running into stereotypes in the workplace because of their hair styles or they have been denied opportunities, this issue has left many negative feelings. Over the weekend, a Bloomfield College Resident Advisor held a program in the living room of one of there on campus houses, to discuss natural hair bias in the workplace. The program titled, I Am Not My Hair, brought out multiple students with a lot to say on the topic. Graduating senior, Abree, spoke about her fears as an African American woman entering a work force with so many cases of men and women being released from job opportunities because of their hair. Abree explained, “I have natural curly hair that is growing back from heat damage. Even though my hair is a nice length, I do not always want to wear it straight because its damaging. I wear braids in all different colors and styles because it protects my hair, but I’m scared I will miss out on job opportunities after seeing people get fired because of the way they choose to wear their hair”.
(Bloomfield College graduate Neme Brown )
Abree’s classmate Neme shared the same frustration and fear of being judged based on her hair. Neme said “I have dreads and there have been so many articles about employers saying dreads are an inappropriate style for the work place. I don’t want to have to change such an important part of my identity for a job. I can have dreads and still do my job sufficiently”. Multiple students spoke out about hair biases well as stereotypes in that come with certain styles. Freshman phycology major, Brandon explained his experience as an African American man with long natural hair entering the work force in a few years. Brandon said, “As a black man with hair pass my shoulders, I’ve been asked at so many interviews if I would consider cutting my hair as a job requirement. I never understand how people can ask you something like that but won’t really explain why”. The men in the room shared experiencessimilar to Brandon’s ,which also included being told that certain hairstyles can make people feel like men are associated with a life in crime or negativity in general. Overall, this program provided students with an opportunity to release and share their fears when transitioning into their professional careers.
Comments