One of the things that we believe as Baes is that we are way more than the sum of our parts. Collectively–we are a force to be reckoned with–and can make change happen. Individually, though, we have those super-duper interesting, wonderful, heart-wrenching, tear-jerker, awe-inspiring, and plain ol’ damn truth-telling stories that make us real Baes. And, periodically, we need to celebrate and listen to individuals.
Let us introduce our new series, Pass the Mic, where we ask a Bae to share her or his story.
To recognize Black History Month, we have asked Tracy Rainford to share her truth. Short and powerful, we hope you recognize how this individual can mobilize and change us collectively.
Imagine that wearing your hair naturally, would hinder you from getting a job or a promotion. Imagine that in 43 States, it would be totally legal for a company to discriminate against you based on your hair. Seems ridiculous? Well… as a Black woman this is a reality.
Recently, a new hire reached out to me to get our opinion on whether she should get braids. She wanted to know if it would be considered unprofessional, and since she is new to the industry, she reached out to her network of Black women within the company to get their opinions. I felt mixed emotions, I was happy that she had a network of Black women to reach out to. This is something I did not have 23 years ago when I started and worried about wearing my hair braided. But I was also saddened to know that in the 23 years this was still something that Black women worry about.
I decided to wear my hair natural nearly a decade ago, it is a decision I am very proud of, but like 80% of Black women, still, find the need to straighten my hair for interviews. Even though I feel more established in my career, I know that braids or my natural curls may be considered “unprofessional” and this may cost me getting the position. This message is saying that the Black image and culture are not considered professional, even though some of these styles are much neater than what is considered conventionally professional. Fortunately, my home state is one of the 7 states that have signed The Crown Act which makes race-based hair discrimination illegal. Last September, the House of Representatives passed the federal Crown bill. If approved by the Senate, it will be illegal in every state. With this passing, hopefully, there will be a future where Black women will not have to worry about how their hair will affect their careers.
Tracy
To learn more about the Crown Act check out thecrownact.com.