Challenges Faced by People of Color: Unwanted Hair Touching in the Workplace
If you’ve ever been asked “Can I touch your hair?” you know it’s often followed up by a reaching hand before you can even say “no.” While that’s one of the most common reactions people of color with natural hair face at work, it’s not the only one.
A new study by StyleSeat surveyed over 1,000 Americans about their thoughts on natural hair in the workplace and what people of color have experienced.
Key Findings:
– 28% of people of color have had someone ask to touch their hair, and 23% have had someone actually touch their hair without asking.
– A majority (61%) of people have gotten a general comment about their hair while at work, and 48% have had someone comment to them about another co-worker’s hairstyle.
– 10% of people of color have felt pressured to wear hair straightened or relaxed to fit in.
Our natural hair is an integral part of our identity and heritage, representing a rich tapestry of styles and textures. Touching someone’s hair without their consent can be intrusive and disrespectful, undermining the autonomy and agency of individuals.
The full study can be viewed HERE that also looks at natural hair representation across several industries.
