– Missouri among 27 states without a law preventing hair discrimination
– Emphasis on the discrimination towards Black community’s natural hair
– Community efforts underway to promote love and acceptance for afro-textured hair
Missouri’s Ongoing Struggle with Hair Discrimination
In Missouri, the struggle for hair diversity recognition continues. The state is one of the remaining 27 in the U.S. that has not enacted safeguards against hair discrimination in places of employment and educational establishments.
Discrimination Centre-Parted
The focal point is the pervasive discrimination suffered by the Black community for their natural hair. Countless stories have surfaced of Black individuals being denied educational and professional opportunities due to their afro-textured hair. Traditional workplace and school ‘dress codes’ frequently target natural hairstyles such as braids, cornrows, twists, and afros, practices that disproportionately impact the Black community.
Grassroots Efforts in Full Swing
Despite the lack of legislative action, the Black community in Missouri is not sitting idle. Individuals and organizations are spearheading grassroots initiatives aimed at fostering love and respect for afro-textured hair. They are educating on the unique care that such hair requires, dispelling stigmatizing myths, and empowering people to embrace their natural hair.
The Breezy Take
While Missouri remains on the list of states yet to address hair discrimination, it’s encouraging to see community-driven efforts making strides. The movement towards acceptance of natural hair is gaining momentum, with hair no longer being a subtle codifier of social acceptance or professional appropriateness. As the grassroots push continues, let’s hope legislative reform isn’t far behind. It’s high time we cut loose antiquated notions of hair etiquette in favor of a more inclusive understanding.
Original article: https://stlpr.org/show/st-louis-on-the-air/2023-08-24/missouri-has-yet-to-pass-the-crown-act-whats-at-stake