Simple Rule: If you’re an ex-convict, if you’re on probation and even if you’re not, cornrows and dreadlocks are not hair styling options.

Face it, society will judge you. In fact, it already has.. We’re the ones who convicted you in the first place. Sure, it was most likely your actions that got you there but from this day forward, whether it’s reviewing your resume, meeting with your PO, leaving you alone in our house or going out on a date, we’ll continue to judge you so why not make it easy on us?

The rational that cornrows and dreadlocks are not professional flies in the face of countless people in Afri-Ethnic communities who through their own hair styling choices buck tradition and wear their hair naturally. Consciously or not so, we are active participants in redefining what is acceptable by mainstream society and guess what? You’re not making it any easier on us. How can we proclaim that these styles aren’t for thugs when every time we turn around you all are sporting them?

Sure, you can do what you want. You’re non-conformity is what landed you in jail in the first place. You’re a rebel! but I’m here to make a plea. The next time you go on a job interview or meet with someone who can make or break your re-entrance into society so that you can be a positive force on your community, remember, cornrows and dreadlocks are not for you.

Why? Impressions mean everything and right now, much of mainstream society regards these styles as unprofessional. Much of mainstream society feels where they’re ok for rappers and athletes, they serve no purpose in the work place. And for much of mainstream society, you’re going to need to conform before you’re reformed.

So do the right thing. Help us, help you. This is one instance where doing what “the man” wants not only benefits you, but it benefits those of us who struggled…and continue to struggle to show the world that Afri-Ethnic is beautiful, diverse and intelligent. We work just as hard as our mainstream counterparts, we sought the education (from “colleges” that don’t have bars mind you), we have a keen understanding and drive for what we want to achieve and we don’t want to be judged by our hair or yours.