Moderated by Dr. Andrea Williams, this session addresses the legal, economic, and historical implications of Black styles of self-presentation, including wearing natural hair. Whether at school or work, Black people often are penalized for wearing cultural hairstyles such as Afros, locs or braids. Biases against these styles can contribute to disparities in hiring, school discipline and suspension, health, and student participation in extracurricular activities. To prohibit hair discrimination, the Columbus City Council recently passed the CROWN ACT (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair). Learn more about how hairstyles are about more than beauty and how we can do more to promote racial equity.
Panelists:
Karen Beard | Educational Studies, Ohio State
Jasmine Nichole Cobb | African American Studies, Duke University
Courtney Johnson | Ohio State Office of Institutional Equity
Priscilla Tyson | Columbus City Council
Watch the recording here.