Sacrificing health for a hairstyle? Entrepreneur challenges views on Black women's hair
Black women’s hair has faced extensive scrutiny and regulation throughout history, from societal judgment to legislation. A Brooklyn social entrepreneur challenges these views with a simple question – would you change your hair for a job?
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Black women’s hair has faced extensive scrutiny and regulation throughout history, from societal judgment to legislation. A Brooklyn social entrepreneur challenges these views with a simple question – would you change your hair for a job?
Mireille Liong’s inquiry is deeply personal. Having relaxed her hair for years, partly due to work demands, she experienced significant hair loss and sought to understand why.
"That's when my hair really started to break," said Liong.
With research, Liong discovered troubling information: studies indicate that hair relaxers may increase the risk of uterine cancer. Research from the National Institutes of Health reveals that 60% of participants in these studies were Black women. Liong also learned that she was not alone in her struggle with hair loss.
“Two percent of women suffer from bulimia, and there's a whole worldwide campaign. Seventy-three percent of Black women are going bald and spending nine times more money, and no one is tackling the issue," said Liong.
Through her street interviews, Liong aims to shift perspectives and inspire change. Her ultimate goal is not just to discuss hair but to advocate for the right to embrace one’s natural hair and promote its health.
"In the end, I don't care how your hair looks, as long as you have the right to wear your own hair and your hair gets healthy."
Liong’s collected responses will be featured in an exhibition at Restoration Plaza on Oct. 10.
