Campaign Backed by Mel B Seeks Legal Protection for Afro Hair in UK
World Afro Day group urges UK government to amend Equality Act, making afro hair a protected characteristic. Over 100 public figures support the campaign to combat workplace and societal discrimination.
A campaign supported by Mel B and over 100 public figures is calling for afro hair to be designated as a protected characteristic under the UK's Equality Act 2010. The World Afro Day (WAD) organization has initiated this effort to address ongoing discrimination in workplaces and schools.
The campaign argues that while race is already protected, individuals with afro-textured hair still face unfair treatment due to their natural hair. This push for legal recognition comes as part of a broader global movement to combat hair discrimination, which has gained momentum in recent years.
Mel B, former Spice Girl, shared her personal experience with hair discrimination:
"The very first video shoot I did as a Spice Girl for Wannabe, the stylists took one look at my hair and told me it had to be straightened. My big hair didn't fit the pop star mould. But I stood my ground – backed by my girls – and I sang and danced as me, with my big hair, my brown skin and I was totally proud of who I was."
This incident occurred nearly 30 years ago, highlighting the long-standing nature of this issue. The natural hair movement, which gained traction in the 2000s, has been instrumental in promoting acceptance of afro-textured hair.
Paulette Hamilton, Labour MP for Birmingham Erdington, sponsored a drop-in clinic in Parliament on September 10, 2024, to discuss the proposed amendment. She emphasized that current legislation does not adequately protect people of color in the workplace, citing that one in three employers might discriminate based on natural hair.
The campaign addresses the psychological impact of hair discrimination. Michelle De Leon, WAD founder, noted that concerns about hair acceptance often begin before entering the workplace, affecting interview preparation and self-presentation.
It's important to note that hair discrimination is not just a UK issue. In the United States, the CROWN Act has been enacted in several states to prohibit race-based hair discrimination. This global awareness reflects the growing recognition of hair as a significant aspect of cultural identity and personal expression.
The natural hair care industry has seen substantial growth, with the global hair care market projected to reach $211.1 billion by 2025. This economic trend underscores the increasing demand for products and services catering to diverse hair textures.
As the campaign gains momentum, it aims to challenge long-standing Eurocentric beauty standards and promote inclusivity in professional and educational settings. The proposed amendment to the Equality Act could mark a significant step towards recognizing and protecting the rights of individuals with afro-textured hair in the UK.
