Rule 02. Make Sure Your Hair Always Looks Professional

Society does not always consider naturally worn Black hair to be professional.

Afros to fades. Natural curls to long braids. Dreads to cornrows. The connection between Black hair and Black identity has strong, deep roots. But Black people are often encouraged to style their hair in ways that conform to Eurocentric beauty standards in professional and educational settings in order to be taken seriously.

Black hair worn naturally or with certain styles is often deemed “unprofessional” and is sometimes even banned by school and office dress codes.

Let’s erase this rule

Shared Stories (coming soon)

Are you Black or African American? Submit an anonymous story to us. Your untold experiences of facing discrimination are worth being told. We’ll give your story a voice and share it below anonymously here, Instagram and in an upcoming book.

Check back soon for new submissions. Do you have a story to share for this rule or others?

Send Anonymous Story

Let’s Erase this Rule

Here are some resources for you to educate yourself and inspire action.

Share on Your Social

Support the cause and empower others by downloading and sharing our rule cards. Be sure to tag @unwrittenrulesproject on Instagram and use the hashtag #erasetherules.

Drag