Black Hair in Uniform: Who Were Military Standards Written For?

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when your hair won't stay in regulation, your beret rubs out your edges, and the water on deployment is turning your hair orange?In this episode of Hair What I'm Saying, veteran Jacinda Mitchell shares what it was really like navigating Black hair in uniform while serving more than 23 years in the military. From getting her entire squad smoked because her ponytail wouldn't stay up during basic training to cutting her hair just to survive military life, Jacinda offers an honest look at the realities behind military standards that weren't designed with textured hair in mind.Together, we explore the physical and emotional impact of strict grooming regulations, creative workarounds like sewing satin into berets, the challenges of caring for natural hair during deployments, and the quiet sacrifices many Black women made in the name of professionalism.But this conversation reaches beyond military service. Jacinda reflects on entering corporate America, where replacing straight wigs with her natural afro changed the way colleagues perceived her, proving that conversations about Black hair, identity, and professionalism don't end when the uniform comes off.If you've ever wondered who the standards were written for, this episode offers a thoughtful and deeply personal perspective on service, resilience, and authenticity.Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear this conversation.Want to hear more of Jacinda's story? Click Here and visit the VA's Make the Connection. It's a free resource where veterans share personal experiences to encourage, support, and help others navigating similar challenges.Support the showDo you have a story to share that’s worth our listeners hearing, please fill out the Listener Letters Form and tell us your story! We would love to hear from you!Don't forget to follow Kinetra on Instagram @_hairwhatimsaying_ and check out her website Hair What I'm Saying for more.Please leave a review and rate the show. Let us know how we are doing!Support the Hair What I’m Saying Podcast💛 From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being part of this community.buymeacoffee.com/hairwhatimsaying