People shouldn’t have to question whether or not their hairstyles will land them the job they’re applying for. Hairstyles don’t define what people are capable of accomplishing in the workplace, or in any aspect in society for that matter.

According to New York Times, New guidelines are set to be released soon stating that “the targeting of people based on their hair or hairstyle, at work, school or in public spaces, will now be considered racial discrimination.”

Melphine Evans is one of the many people who have lost their jobs due to their hairstyles and/or attire. She was terminated from her position at British Petroleum Oil Co, (BP). It was claimed that wearing dashikis and braiding her hair made people “uncomfortable.” To make matters worse, she was told that she needed to notify her colleagues ahead of time if she decided to wear anything ethnic-like.

Can you imagine that? Having to wake up each morning for a job you have worked at for the past ten years, and have to ask people “Hey are you cool with me wearing my hair braided? I don’t want to make you feel uncomfortable.” No one should have to do this. It’s hair. Wearing your hair braided or any other style for that matter, shouldn’t stop anyone from doing their jobs.

In another case, a Christian school in Florida denied admittance to 6-year-old boy because of his dreadlocks. His father Clinton Stanley Jr. was told that one of the school’s policies was for hair to have a “tapered cut, off the collar and ears.” I comprehend that is part of the school’s policy, but why? A student’s hair is not going to stop someone else from learning, not even the individual who wears it.

There have been multiple times where people–specifically people of color, have been discriminated against due to the way their hair is styled. This needs to stop.

Sure, everyone can agree that for certain jobs you have to look presentable and dress accordingly. After all, they do say that you’re supposed to dress for the job you want, but targeting someone based on what way their hair is styled is nonsense. It doesn’t represent who they are as a person. However people choose to wear their hair should be up to them and only them. No one should have to ask anyone for permission.