In a groundbreaking move towards inclusive beauty, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul recently signed legislation that marks a significant victory for the textured hair community. The newly passed law, known as Bill S6528A, aims to address the longstanding issue of limited education and training for hairstylists in dealing with diverse hair textures, impacting a significant portion of the population.
For too long, people with textured hair have faced challenges finding hairstylists who understand and cater to their unique needs. According to the Texture Education Collective, a staggering 66% of BIPOC models in the high-fashion industry have encountered hairstylists unable to handle their hair texture. This frustration extends to hairstylists as well, with 75% expressing a desire for more education and training on diverse hair types.
The roots of the problem trace back to historical biases in the cosmetology industry, where textbooks and education materials predominantly featured pictures of white women with hair types 1 or 2. This exclusionary history has perpetuated a lack of natural hair education in cosmetology schools, leaving a substantial gap in the training of hairstylists.
@healthyafrohair
Previous initiatives like the CROWN Act, pioneered by California in 2019, aimed to combat race-based hair discrimination. While 23 states, including New York, have adopted similar legislation, the lack of federal-level protection highlights the need for continued efforts to address this issue comprehensively.
Bill S6528A is a proactive step towards diversifying cosmetology school education. The legislation mandates that graduates must be equipped to provide services to individuals with all hair types and textures. Governor Hochul, Senator Jamaal Bailey, and Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages spearheaded this legislation, recognizing the importance of creating a more inclusive beauty industry.
The law requires cosmetology schools to adapt their courses within the next six months to align with the new standards. This includes updating curriculums, incorporating natural hair education, and diversifying testing materials to reflect knowledge of textured hair care.
@hope_hair_flint
The implications of this legislation are far-reaching. Cosmetology schools will need to undergo significant changes, ensuring that students receive comprehensive education on working with diverse hair textures. The Texture Education Collective, in collaboration with the Professional Beauty Association, is actively supporting this transition by offering supplemental materials, resources, and guidance.
The law is expected to transform salons into more inclusive spaces, where people with textured hair feel welcomed, understood, and safe. By addressing the education gap, the legislation not only uplifts the BIPOC community but also challenges the industry’s unspoken double standards, where Black hairstylists are often expected to be versatile, while their white counterparts are not.
@rosesovaj
Beyond the immediate impact on hairstylist education and salon services, the legislation contributes to changing the societal perception of natural hair. It challenges stereotypes and fosters an environment where everyone, regardless of their hair type, feels deserving of professional services in a salon.
While Bill S6528A is not a quick fix, it sets the stage for a more inclusive future, encouraging the beauty industry to recognize the diverse needs of its clientele. As New York takes this bold step, it may serve as a blueprint for other states to swiftly adopt similar laws, ushering in a nationwide movement towards a more inclusive and empowering beauty landscape.
Featured images via @danielmbeauty, @rosesovaj
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