Latest news with #BlackMen
Washington Post
a day ago
- General
- Washington Post
The pandemic is over. Schools should get the message.
Opinion | This is why the media should not replay viral videos of black men being killed June 10, 2020
Washington Post
2 days ago
- General
- Washington Post
The first modern immigrant pope is exactly what America needs
Opinion | This is why the media should not replay viral videos of black men being killed June 10, 2020
The Independent
27-05-2025
- General
- The Independent
New grooming standards in the Marines will target Black men, critics charge
The US Marine Corps is eliminating waivers that previously allowed service members who suffer from razor bumps to forgo shaving — an action critics say disproportionately affects Black men. The US military requires all male service members to be clean-shaven. However, the military introduced shaving wavers in the 1970s to address genetic skin conditions like pseudofolliculitis barbae, better known as razor bumps or ingrown hairs. Now, thanks to guidance issued in March, men with a PFB or ingrown hair diagnosis could be expelled from the Marines if the issue continues. Aimed at enhancing Marines' "warfighting capability," the guidance states that service members with PFB must undergo a medical evaluation within 90 days. If their condition doesn't improve within a year following a four-step treatment plan, Marines with PFB may be discharged with an honorable discharge for "incompatibility with service" at their commanding officer's discretion, Jacoby Getty, a spokesperson for the Corps' Manpower and Reserve Affairs, told in March. The recent policy update under Brig. Gen. David R. Everly reversed a 2022 rule that prevented Marines from being discharged solely due to the skin condition. Over the past three years, service members could receive temporary or permanent shaving waivers or 'no shave chits' if their PFB was unresponsive to topical treatments. PFB affects up to 60 percent of Black men, the highest rate among all groups, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. People with PFB can experience painful bumps, itching, and even scarring after shaving. There is no cure for PFB, but laser hair removal is the most effective long-term solution, according to the US Pharmacist. Black service members represent roughly 15 percent to 16 percent of the active-duty force, yet they account for 66 percent of those holding shaving waivers, reports. Critics of this guidance, including an active military dermatologist who agreed to remain anonymous while speaking with NBC News, said this rule has 'nothing to do with readiness.' 'On its face, it's a racist policy, because this is a condition that impacts African Americans and other people of color predominantly just by the nature of hair growth on the face,' the dermatologist said in an article published on May 24. Earlier this year, the US Air Force also revised its guidelines on PFB, announcing that shaving waivers will end 90 days after an airman's next annual medical evaluation, though the criteria for continued eligibility remain unclear. Air Force veteran Ed Anderson, 70, told NBC News that he views this move as another example of the 'ongoing attacks' on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within the federal government. 'It's mostly soldiers of color who are impacted by this,' Anderson told the outlet. 'I don't see this as a productive and effective means of retaining and recruiting troops.' It's unknown how many Marines the new policy will impact, as the service does not keep centralized records of those with PFB shaving exemptions, Getty said.
Washington Post
19-05-2025
- Washington Post
We asked an immigration attorney: What should you do if approached by ICE?
Opinion | This is why the media should not replay viral videos of black men being killed June 10, 2020
Associated Press
17-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Pokz Hair Studios Offers Mental Health Support Service for Black Men
Croydon, UK - In the heart of Croydon, Pokz Hair Studios is redefining the traditional barbershop experience by intertwining expert hair replacement with a sanctuary for mental well-being for Black men. Founded by Opoku Kunadu-Yiadom in 2023, Pokz Hair Studios is more than just a place for quality hair pieces for men of colour. It's a haven where clients find solace, understanding, and a listening ear. Opoku, a certified barber from the London School of Barbering with additional qualifications in Hair Replacement Systems, transitioned from a career as a quantity surveyor to pursue his passion for barbering during the lockdown. His unique approach has seen the studio flourish, expanding from an initial 10 clients to serving dozens regularly, with revenues growing from £40,000 to over £100,000 annually. 'It's not just about the haircut,' said Opoku. 'It's about creating a space where men feel safe to open up about their struggles, be it depression, job loss, or personal challenges. The barber-client relationship is powerful; sometimes, it's the only place where men feel they can truly be themselves.' This approach is particularly significant given the mental health challenges faced by Black men in the UK. Statistics reveal that Black men are 17 times more likely than white men to be diagnosed with a serious mental health illness and are more frequently subjected to mental health interventions . Yet, they are less likely to access mental health services, often due to stigma and systemic barriers. Opoku said: 'One of my regular clients stopped coming in. Concerned, I reached out and discovered he was battling depression after losing his job and facing personal issues. I invited him for a free haircut. That simple act helped restore his confidence, and he soon secured a new job. It's moments like these that underscore the importance of what we do.' With everything he does, Opuku is focused on supporting and advocating about men's mental health and parental alienation, emphasizing that 'hair is just the beginning - it's about holistic well-being.' Media Contact Company Name: Pokz Hair Studios Contact Person: Opoku Kunadu-Yiadom Email: Send Email Country: United Kingdom Website: Source: PR Company
