UPS workers can now have natural hair and beards

After decades, UPS employees can freely put on beards and natural hairstyles.
Previously, the company banned Afros, braids, visible tattoos, beards and mustaches larger than the crease of the lip. The Wall Street Journal reports that Afros, braids, curls, coils, locs, twists and knots are now explicitly allowed, as well as facial hair which is worn “professionally” and poses no safety concerns. A gender-specific dress code has also been dropped.

It is no coincidence that this news comes after the company hired Carol Tomé, its first female manager in its 113-year history. UPS told The New York Times that Tomé “listened to employee feedback and heard that changes in this area would make them more likely to recommend UPS as an employer.” They also said in a statement that “these changes reflect our values ​​and our desire to make all UPS employees feel comfortable, genuine and genuine while providing service to our customers and interacting with them. the general public.

This policy change is part of a growing movement to address long-standing discrimination in the workplace against dark hair. The CROWN Act (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair), a law that prohibits restricting employment and education opportunities based on hair texture, is law in seven states, including California and New Jersey. In September, it also passed the United States House. Hopefully there will be more approval of the curl designs to come.