This video story was written reported and produced by Ta’Bria Snowden.
Working in the media industry thrusts a bright spotlight onto those who step in front of it, and Black hairstyles have been one aspect that’s not only been in the spotlight, but historically under scrutiny.
Florida Focus’ Ta’Bria Snowden spoke to Black journalists in the broadcast media industry about what their experiences have been like wearing their hair naturally or in protective hairstyles.
“If I for one day want to express myself, one day I want to walk into work with braids, to them I am doing something that is considered maybe inappropriate or considered a distraction,” said Alexis Jones, WTVA reporter.
The Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act will be the first step in ensuring that Black hairstyles are protected by federal law against discrimination in the work place. After its origination in 2019 in collaboration between the beauty brand Dove and the CROWN Coalition, it has generated traction at Capitol Hill with its passage in the House of Representatives in Sept. 2020.
Black women’s hair is 3.4 times more likely to be seen as “unprofessional” in the workplace, according to a study conducted by Dove and the CROWN Coalition.
“I remember passing one of my co-workers on an elevator and the first question I got was, ‘Oh, is that a part of your costume?’ and I’m like ‘What costume? I’m wearing an orange sweater and black slacks,'” said Pamela Thompson, founder of the Tampa-based beauty supply store My Shade and Texture.
Wearing hair naturally or in other protective hairstyles, such as twists, braids or dreadlocks without facing discrimination in the workplace will be another step toward equity for Black people in workplaces across the board, not just the media industry.
“My natural hair means me, it means Jada,” said Jada Williams, anchor for ABC 27. “It’s who I am. I came out with this hair.”
