A new law mandating that cosmetology students in New York learn how to style textured hair has been passed. While many supporters of the bill celebrate this new regulation as a diversity win for Black women in New York State, others view it as a potential threat to Black hairstylists. They fear increased competition as non-Black stylists are now required to learn how to style Black hair. The bill, introduced in April of this year by New York State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey, was signed into law on November 17.

Those who view this law as a victory see it as an end to the ‘discrimination’ based on hair texture that some Black women have faced when seeking service in salons with stylists who don’t know how to style textured hair.

Jonaise Pickett, a stylist based in New York, shares her experience of working in a salon among white stylists who pass their clients to her because they are incapable of styling textured hair, despite being overwhelmed with her own clientele. Pickett took to her Instagram to respond to the backlash about the bill and shared her thoughts: ‘Hairstylists should know how to style all types of hair.’ She added, ‘Whoever is best fit for the job, should get the job,’ encouraging those who feel this law will cut into the market share of Black hairstylists to focus on excellence rather than competition.

The issue of non-Black stylists being unable to style textured hair has long been a problem in the fashion industry. Models have complained for years about the lack of ability or consideration for their hair type on sets of photoshoots and backstage at fashion shows. This may now become a thing of the past with the passing of this bill.

On the other hand, diversity and inclusion actions, designed to tackle discrimination and segregation, have historically had negative impacts on Black-owned businesses and institutions. In the years following integration, many Black businesses lost sales and had to close due to their customers opting to spend money in white-owned establishments and businesses outside their community.

In reality, both women and men are more likely to have their hair styled by someone of their own race or culture, and as Jonaise Pickett passionately shared in her post, ‘Whoever is best fit for the job, should get the job.’

Proverbs 22:29 says, ‘Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings.’ Some of the best and highest-paid stylists in fashion and entertainment are Black men and women, many of whom come from humble beginnings. Despite this nation’s history of discrimination and racism, there is no opportunity that excellence, determination, and the grace of God cannot grant you access to.