Olivia Anakwe took to Instagram this month to shed light on the negligence and disrespect she experienced prior to a runway show by haircare professionals who either caused her physical pain or blatantly refused to style her natural hair texture. In a thorough post, Anakwe explained the insulting treatment models and celebrities of color are often exposed to while having to deal with white hairstylists who have failed to learn how to care for black women's hair.
"I was asked to get out of an empty chair followed by having hairstylists blatantly turning their backs to me when I would walk up to them, to get my hair done," Anakwe wrote. "Black hairstylists are required to know how to do everyone’s hair, why does the same not apply to others? It does not matter if you don’t specialize in afro hair, as a continuous learner in your field you should be open to what you have yet to accomplish; take a class."
Following Anakwe's post, many black and POC entertainers started using the hashtag #ActingWhileBlack to note the carelessness they've experienced, calling on the fashion and entertainment industries to address their blatant disregard for natural hair.
