Why are black Americans being punished for their hair?

Many black Americans are embracing the natural curls and coils in their hair. But there’s been a backlash against black hairstyles in classrooms and companies across America.

Toddlers and teens have been kicked out of school because of their hair, while many adults face losing their jobs. We get to the root of why this kind of discrimination is so common - and legal - in the US and find out what it will take to stop it.

Reported and produced by Chelsea Bailey. Filmed and edited by Hannah Long-Higgins.

Graphics and animation by Angelica Casas

Associate Producer: Shrai Popat

Additional filming by Alexandra Ostasiewicz and Chloe Kim

Piano score by Gene D'Andrea

23 February 2022

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