Afrolatina journalists embrace their natural hair, connect to a truer version of themselves
In the media industry, hair is never just hair. It’s political. Often, one of the first things viewers notice. A feature that sparks conversations around acceptance and representation.
Amid online social movements advocating for greater inclusivity, in 2019 California became the first state in the U.S. to outlaw race-based hair discrimination in the workplace and public schools, legislation known as the CROWN Act. While it’s not federal law, 27 states have passed it, providing Black journalists with protections in larger markets like New York and California. The District of Columbia has outlawed hair-based discrimination since the passage of its human rights act in 1977.
Four broadcast journalists told The Latino Reporter why they have chosen to wear their hair in natural and protective styles on air.
Adriana Diaz
Anchor at CBS News, co-host at CBS Mornings Plus
“My hair is independent, and that helps me be independent.”
Jeydah Jenkins
Neighborhood News Reporter, KRIS 6 News in Corpus Christi, Texas
“I’m very proud of showing up being who I am. It’s a testament to my ancestors.”
MJ Acosta-Ruiz
TV Host and Sportscaster, ESPN and NFL Network and ESPN Deportes
“My hair is fearless, unapologetic, takes up space…”
Angie Hernández
Reporter in New York City
“Mi cabello es mi mayor regalo.”
CORRECTION: A previous version of this story incorrectly named the news station where Jeydah Jenkins works. She works at KRIS 6 News in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Morelys Urbano is a recent journalism graduate from Morgan State University. She was recently part of a team awarded an Emmy for a documentary about the history of her alma mater. She aspires to a career in broadcast journalism and documentary filmmaking. Reach her at morelysurbano [at] gmail [dot] com.
