End Race-Based Hair Discrimination In The Workplace
BIPOC women are experiencing workplace discrimination because of their hair.
Black women report being 30% more likely to receive a formal grooming policy in the workplace compared to other employees during the application and orientation phase. The NEW CROWN 2023 Workplace Research Study, co-commissioned by Dove and LinkedIn, found that Black women's hair is 2.5 times more likely to be perceived as unprofessional and details the systemic social and economic impact of hair bias and discrimination against Black women in the workplace.
The CROWN Act, which stands for creating a respectful and open world for natural hair, has been praised as an essential step toward creating a more inclusive and equitable society that celebrates diversity and empowers people to be themselves authentically in the workplace. It is a law that prohibits racial discrimination based on natural textures and protective hairstyles, including braids, locs, twists and bantu knots in the workplace, housing and public accommodations.
Some senators and business leaders have argued that it is unnecessary or infringes on the rights of businesses to set their dress codes.
However, proponents of the act argue that it is necessary to address the ongoing problem of racial bias and discrimination in society, and tech companies can take note.
LinkedIn launched a series of initiatives to address race-based hair discrimination on its platform. The company added a new feature called "Open to All," which allows users to specify that they are open to working with people of all races, ethnicities, genders, and backgrounds. LinkedIn also partnered with The Crown Coalition, a group of organizations dedicated to ending race-based hair discrimination, to raise awareness and promote change.
It is designed to ensure that people are not penalized or discriminated against based on their hair texture or style, which can significantly impact their sense of identity and self-worth.
How can tech companies use their platforms to dismantle adversity for underrepresented communities?
According to Dove, many states in the United States do not offer protection towards race-based hair discrimination, even if the hairstyle is culturally based. This means, Black women, unfortunately, can be denied employment opportunities and career advancement without explanation. It also means Black children can be denied school entry or passed up for educational opportunities because of their natural hair.
8 ways tech companies can start to make an impact
Tech companies can use their platform in many ways to drive positive change. Below are 8 ways to start making an impact:
Increase representation
Tech companies can take proactive measures to increase the representation of underrepresented communities in their workforce. This can be done through diversity and inclusion initiatives, targeted recruitment efforts, and training programs. An expert interview on the UnapologeTECH podcast featuring seasoned HR executive Sherika Expo who is an advisor to C-suite executives in silicon valley and spearheaded DEI at Google and other hyper-tech growth companies in tech. She discusses the importance of representation and the long-term effects this has on companies. During the podcast episode, we discussed when there is diverse representation in the tech industry, companies are able to drive diverse perspectives. People from different backgrounds and experiences can bring new and unique ideas to the table, leading to better innovation and problem-solving.
Access to opportunities
The Tech industry has opportunities, but it’s mainly based on your network and connections, which leads to a wide range of underrepresented communities missing out on opportunities because of the lack of network. As discussed with podcaster and brand creator Terri Lomax on the UnapologeTECH podcast, access to opportunities depends heavily on your network. When there is a lack of representation in the tech industry, it can be difficult for individuals from underrepresented groups to access the same opportunities as their peers. This can perpetuate a cycle of exclusion and inequality.
Addressing bias
When there is a lack of representation in the tech industry, it can perpetuate conscious and unconscious biases. Increasing representation can address these biases and promote a more inclusive and equitable workplace. Heather Hiles, Forbes 50 Over 50 honoree and Founder and managing partner at Imminent Equity, discusses experiencing discrimination as a non-binary African American founder in tech during an engaging podcast episode on Unapologetech podcast designed to amplify women of color voices in tech.
Improved business outcomes
Companies with more diverse teams tend to perform better financially and are more likely to attract and retain top talent. Studies have shown that various teams outperform individuals about 87% of the time during business decision-making processes, and diverse groups were also shown to make decisions faster than individuals. Lastly, Gender-diverse teams are incredibly effective, outperforming individuals 73% of the time, compared to 58% for all-male teams.
Eliminate bias
Organizations can review their algorithms and platform policies to ensure that they are not perpetuating biases or discrimination against underrepresented communities. This can be achieved through regular audits and involving diverse stakeholders in decision-making processes.
Support access to education
Tech companies can provide access to education and training programs to help underrepresented communities gain the skills needed to participate in the tech industry. This can include online courses, mentorship programs, and partnerships with educational institutions. Currently, UnapologeTECH Coaching partners with the University of San Francisco and a wide range of tech companies to provide coaching and training to MBA students preparing to embark on the tech industry. The curated workshops provide unique training designed to educate, empower, and prepare underrepresented people and young professionals to be set up for success.
Foster community engagement
Tech companies can use their platforms to promote dialogue and engagement with underrepresented communities. Many companies have employee resource groups designed to create a safe space for underrepresented employees, and events occur. Studies have shown ERG systems and infrastructure strengthen acceptance.
Address systemic issues
Tech companies can use their influence to advocate for policy changes that address systemic issues that impact underrepresented communities. This can include supporting initiatives that address income inequality, access to healthcare, and education reform. Initiatives like Dove and LinkedIn aim to raise awareness and spark conversations about race-based hair discrimination in the workplace, as well as provide support and resources for individuals and organizations that are working to end it.
Overall, tech companies have the power to play a transformative role in dismantling adversity for underrepresented communities. By taking proactive steps to increase representation, eliminate bias, support access to education, foster community engagement, and address systemic issues, they can help create a more equitable future for all. An increase in representation in the tech industry is important for creating a more inclusive, innovative, and equitable industry which is why it’s important to amplify the voices of successful women of color in tech. Without awareness, it’s difficult to create change and a better environment for all.
