The Management Tip of the Day

Include Hair Discrimination in Your DEI Efforts.‌ Afro-textured hair is stereotyped and stigmatized around the world. Recent research found that, despite some legislative progress over the past few years, race-based hair discrimination remains a widespread issue for Black women in the workplace. As a leader, how can you mitigate the destructive effects of hair bias and discrimination at your organization? It starts with awareness. First, ensure that any conversation about racial equity and supporting Black employees includes discussions about hair discrimination and texturism and how they harm Black employees—especially Black women. It's also critical to be intentional about the images your organization uses in any corporate context. Consider the stock images included in routine workshops and presentations. Do they represent a wide variety of both hairstyles and hair textures? These seemingly minor details can normalize Black hair and interrupt the bias that wrongfully deems it "unprofessional." Finally, solicit employee feedback on the issue. Host open conversations on topics like texturism and hair bias to educate your employees—and be intentional about centering Black women's voices in these discussions. Today’s Tip  Include Hair Discrimination in Your DEI Efforts Afro-textured hair is stereotyped and stigmatized around the world. Recent research found that, despite some legislative progress over the past few years, race-based hair discrimination remains a widespread issue for Black women in the workplace. As a leader, how can you mitigate the destructive effects of hair bias and discrimination at your organization? It starts with awareness. First, ensure that any conversation about racial equity and supporting Black employees includes discussions about hair discrimination and texturism and how they harm Black employees—especially Black women. It's also critical to be intentional about the images your organization uses in any corporate context. Consider the stock images included in routine workshops and presentations. Do they represent a wide variety of both hairstyles and hair textures? These seemingly minor details can normalize Black hair and interrupt the bias that wrongfully deems it "unprofessional." Finally, solicit employee feedback on the issue. Host open conversations on topics like texturism and hair bias to educate your employees—and be intentional about centering Black women's voices in these discussions. This tip is adapted from “How Hair Discrimination Affects Black Women at Work,” by Janice Gassam Asare ADVERTISEMENT Stay connected with HBR. We make it our job to help you do yours. Subscribe to HBR and unlock access to unrivaled business insight and resources. Choose your subscription plan Managing Cyber Risk Check out our latest Insight Center Learn how your organization can mitigate the risk. Read now Ebook or paperback HBR Guide to Remote Work by Harvard Business Review $19.95 Learn more Don’t forget you’re entitled to 20% off your first purchase* *Use promo code HBRORGREG4. View details here. View in browser Contact us Privacy policy Manage newsletter preferences Unsubscribe

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