August 12, 2014

Congresswoman Lee Praises Changes to Armed Forces Regulation Allowing Natural Hairstyles for Women of Color

Oakland, CA – Today, Congresswoman Lee released this statement following Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel’s response to concerns raised by the women of the Congressional Black Caucus over U.S. Army Regulation 6701: “Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia.”

“African American women make up more than thirty percent of enlisted women. They, like all servicemen and women, deserve policies that are respectful and inclusive. As the daughter of a veteran, I recognize the need for uniformity in the military; natural hairstyles do not reflect or create a lack of professionalism or respect for the Armed Forces’ high standards.

The Army’s use of words like ‘unkempt’ and ‘matted’ to describe the hairstyles of African American women is an offensive stereotype. I am pleased that these terms will be removed from the regulation and urge the Department to move swiftly and thoroughly in implementing and communicating the updates across all divisions.

I look forward to continuing to work with Secretary Hagel to ensure that African American women are treated fairly.