The new hairstyles come with extensive restrictions to ensure they appear neat in uniform.
Twists, or two sections of hair twisted together to form a rope or cord, may only be worn with medium-length and long hair. The appearance of the twists must be neat and professional and cannot interfere with wear of any military headgear or be excessively bulky.
Locks, or single sections of hair that twist from the root to the ends of the hair to form a ringlet or cord, can be worn with short, medium or long hair, must be separated with square or rectangular-shaped partings to keep a professional appearance. All locks and twists must be no wider than 3/8ths of an inch in diameter. Conspicuous hair accessories and “faddish” or “eccentric” hairstyles are still off-limits.
The Marine Corps’ policy update comes a year after the Navy changed its hair rules to include two-strand twists and larger buns to accommodate black female sailors. The Corps is the first, however, to permit locks in uniform, according to officials.
The Marines will also publish a web page in the next 30 days illustrating authorized and unauthorized male and female hairstyles, according to the message.
Has the military evolved to recognize cultural differences or are they pandering to one group of soldiers? Let us know.
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The Marine Corps Relaxes Hairstyle Standards For Black Female Soldiers was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
