Some African-American actresses point to union as main contributor to lack of stylists that can prop

(25 Oct 2019) ACTRESSES CITE LACK OF HOLLYWOOD STYLISTS WHO GET BLACK HAIR

Tiffany Haddish recalls leaving the set of a big-budget movie in tears in search of someone who could properly do her hair. Lorraine Toussaint blithely recounts the times her tresses have been damaged by stylists inexperienced with managing black hair. And Tia Mowry-Hardrict recalls breaking down on set after seeing what was done to her locks.

"It's mind-blowing to me that we still have to_meaning black actresses_have to fight to have black hairdressers on set for us. There was one time in particular I was doing this movie and, my God, I was the lead. And after this person did my hair, I cried. I was like 'I cannot like I cannot go out there looking like this,'" said Mowry-Hardrict, star of the Netflix sitcom, "Family Reunion." I just don't understand why you have to fight to get someone to understand the importance of that."

From Oscar winners to stars on the rise, many African American actresses have similar stories about hair struggles in Hollywood. In an industry known for its glamour and beauty, some say the lack of diversity behind the scenes has led to challenging situations for women of color.

While black hair comes in different textures, it is generally defined by its curls ranging from wavy to very tight coils. For years, racism and segregation typically dictated that black people exclusively worked on black hair. Today, that tradition remains as many non-black stylists, for the most part, have not learned how to successfully work with African American hair.

Halle Berry exploded on the Hollywood scene in the early 1990s with a short, pixie hairstyle that would become her signature. Others heavily copied the style, but the Oscar-winner didn't set out to start a trend_it was a result of previous experiences with some Hollywood stylists.

"That's why I had short hair," laughed the actress. "(Maintaining) it was easy. I think as people of color, especially in the business, we haven't always had people that know how to manage our hair. Those days are different now_that's when I started."

To work in a wide range of entertainment areas, from films to talk shows, hairstylists must be in a union. Local 706 is the union for hairstylists in Los Angeles; Local 798 is based in New York. Joining

a union requires a license and experience on a production.

Local 706 doesn't keep records on the race and ethnicity of its stylists but is aware of the frustrations and is trying to find solutions. Randy Sayer, the business representative for Local 706, hopes that changes in the industry do take place. Sayer says the union has no control over which stylists are hired for a production, that decision belongs to producers, studios and other employers.

"I agree with every woman of color or every actor who says 'we need more.' I want to be the person who's helping us achieve that."

Legendary hairstylist Robert Stevenson, who was honored by 706 last year with a lifetime achievement award, says it's hard for anyone to join the union, regardless of ethnicity: "It's no joke."

The Emmy-winner began his career in the 1960s when he says the government forced Hollywood to hire people of color for all entertainment unions. He was the first black male hairstylist the union accepted.

Stevenson, who's styled stars like Angela Bassett, Viola Davis, Samuel L. Jackson and Eddie Murphy, said with more opportunities for black actors, unions are playing catch up.

Sanaa Lathan says she's worn wigs to protect her tresses.



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