The art of undoing, embracing us: The Natural Hair Movement

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Before Governor JB Pritzker signed the Crown Act in 2022, employers in Illinois had the right to refuse to hire someone based on their hairstyle.  But why does hair, specifically Black hair, require legislation? 

Despite the discrimination, Black hair has not only been a form of expression for the community but it’s also a part of Black culture’s legacy. 

Today, Dialogue untangles the myths behind natural hair and dives into spaces made for the community by the community. 

GUESTS: 

Tinisha Spain

  • Host of Mid-American Gardener, Illinois Public Media 

Ausharra Knox

  • Owner of Beard Culture Barbershop & Gallery

Kristin Rowe 

  • Associate Professor of American Studies at California State University Fullerton

Niesha Young 

  • Local hair educator and stylist, Gifted Hands 
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Penny Bradford

Patricia "Penny" Bradford is a senior majoring in journalism and minoring in public relations at the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign. She is a producer for Dialogue and a native of the Champaign-Urbana area.