Black Excellence with Dania Wright

HAIR: To straighten my hair, or to not straighten my hair... THAT is the question. Recently, a Black woman (Baby Boomer) told me how bold I was to wear my hair naturally, especially in the workplace. I have worked in semi-conservative settings wearing a myriad of natural hairstyles, including locs and an Afro. I often reflect on the experiences of my mentors and consider myself lucky, because many of them did not have the fortune of choice.

Know that the reception to “natural” or “ethnic” hair styles (as you will hear them described) varies from workplace to workplace. You should consider a number of things:

1. Your personal style—how do YOU like to wear your hair?

2. The opportunities you intend to pursue. Do they reside in sectors/ industries that call for a more conservative appearance (e.g. civil service), or is there some flexibility (e.g. technology)?

3. Does your personal style align with the presentation norms of your career goal(s)? I enjoy wearing my hair in its most natural state, and I must work in an environment that gives me the freedom to do just that.

At a conference, sitting and casually conversing with a group of Black colleagues: One colleague—a 20-something woman—says, “Hey guys, let’s split up for the next session. You know people feel some type of way when all of the Black folks sit together.” I’ve heard other Black people make variations of this statement for the greater part of my life (both in academic and professional settings).