Shifting the Natural Hair Narrative Part 2 Diane C. Bailey: Licensing, Hair Loss & Legacy

We continue our discussion on Changing the Natural Hair Narrative with the second of our three-part series. This episode features Diane C. Bailey, a pioneering figure in the world of textured hair care, with a career spanning decades and an unwavering commitment to education, advocacy, and community empowerment. She is the CEO and Founder of EMERGE NBIA: Natural Beauty Industry Alliance and Co_President of the Natural Hairstyle and Braid Coalition.   Born and raised in New York, Diane has emerged as a prominent figure, shaping the landscape of natural hair care not only as a stylist and author as well as a dedicated advocate for the recognition of textured hair as a science, art form, and cultural expression.   With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Diane is renowned for her expertise in working with diverse hair textures, challenging conventional norms, and promoting a holistic approach to hair care. She was the president and art director of Tendrils Hair Spa, one of the first salons in New York City to feature chemically free services for textured hair.     Diane's journey includes getting the first natural hair licensure issues in New York State 30 years ago. Her efforts have been instrumental in establishing a framework for recognizing the intricate care and skill required for working with textured hair. Through the NHBC, she continues to champion the cause of textured hair education through advocacy and legislative engagement, empowering beauty professionals and engaging with the community.   Beyond the salon, Diane is a published author, having penned insightful works that delve into the science and artistry of textured hair. Her commitment to education extends to teaching and mentoring the next generation of stylists, ensuring that the legacy of understanding and embracing textured hair continues.   As a sought-after consultant, Diane lends her expertise to those grappling with hair loss, particularly issues affecting the black community.   Through platforms like Instagram, where she can be found at dianecbailey and Emerge Nbia, she provides consultations and fosters a sense of community for those seeking guidance on their hair care journeys.   Diane C. Bailey stands as a beacon in the textured hair revolution, reminding us that hair is not just strands but a reflection of identity, culture, and resilience.   As she looks toward her next chapter, which includes retirement from behind the chair, Diane remains committed to paving the way for the next generation of hair enthusiasts, educators, and advocates.       Key Takeaways   1. Lack of Education on Textured Hair: Diane addresses the critical issue of the lack of education around textured hair. She emphasizes that many stylists are not adequately trained to handle diverse hair textures, leading to challenges in proper care and styling.   2. Need for Change in Education: There is a pressing need for a paradigm shift in hair care education. Diane advocates for changes in curriculum and training to ensure that stylists are well-equipped to understand and work with the intricacies of textured hair.   3. The Coalition's Mission: Diane co-founded the Natural Hairstyle and Braid Coalition, an organization dedicated to advocating for licensure in New York State. The coalition aims to bring recognition to the unique skill set required for textured hair care and has been actively involved in shaping policies around it.   4. Hair Loss and Alopecia: The increasing prevalence of hair loss, especially among younger individuals; alongside the importance of early detection and intervention for various types of alopecia.   5. The Psychological Impact of Hair Discrimination: Diane discusses the psychological impact of hair discrimination, noting instances of racial bias in professional settings. She acknowledges the importance of initiatives like the Crown Act, which highlight and address discrimination based on hair types.   6. Community Support and Connection: Beyond her role as a stylist, Diane actively engages in community support. She offers consultations for those experiencing hair loss, fostering a sense of community through online platforms.   7. Legacy and Future Endeavors: Diane looks toward the future, expressing her desire to create a platform for beauty retail and continue her involvement in education and community outreach.  She sees mentorship as a crucial aspect, passing the baton to the next generation of individuals passionate about the safety and cultural significance of textured hair.     Timestamps   [00:02:15] Diane shares insights into the lack of education on textured hair within the beauty industry and the challenges faced by stylists in understanding diverse hair textures.   [00:07:40] The co-founding of the Natural Hairstyle and Braid Coalition. Highlighting its mission to advocate for licensure in New York State and bring recognition to the unique skills needed for textured hair care.   [00:11:55] Diane addresses the issue of hair loss, emphasizing the need for early detection of alopecia and the psychological impact of normalized hair loss within the community.   [00:15:20] The importance of initiatives like the Crown Act in addressing discrimination based on hair types, particularly in professional settings.   [00:18:30] Diane's active role in community support, including her consultations for those experiencing hair loss and her engagement with the Natural Hair Care Coalition.   [00:21:05] Future endeavors are discussed, with Diane expressing her desire to create a platform for beauty retail, support education, and pass the baton to the next generation of textured hair enthusiasts.   [25:04] Diane discusses the inception of the Natural Hair Care Coalition in 2001, its engagement with legislators, and the impact it made in slowing down regulatory changes to ensure the voices of textured hair care professionals were heard.   [28:11] The evolving landscape of hair loss is addressed, Diane shares personal experiences and emphasizes  the importance of early detection and intervention for various types of alopecia.   [31:22] Diane emphasizes the significance of normalizing conversations around hair loss and creating awareness to encourage individuals to seek support and join relevant groups for shared experiences.   [36:00] Diane highlights her involvement in teaching at Magic Fingers Institute, supporting natural hair schools, and the coalition's commitment to providing assistance to those interested in entering the industry.   [38:32] The interview concludes with reflections on the ongoing journey and the certainty that textured hair is an integral part of the cultural identity that will persist and flourish.   Quotes   1. "Once we normalize the conversation around hair loss, so it's not a secret, people can come out of the closet and say, me too. I have been suffering, and I'm tired of suffering alone."    2. "The science of dermatology is amazing, but it is very expensive. If your insurance doesn't cover it, catching hair loss early is crucial. It's an investment in yourself."   3. "The Crown Act fortifies us because it talks to the community saying, this is what racial discrimination looks like based on hair types. That language wasn't there before."     Connect with Diane   Book - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1133693687?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_BN22245M6A0EWX8J7PNQ Website - https://www.emergenbia.com/ | Dr. Osei Tutu (Dermatlogy and Hair Loss specialist)  https://www.osei22derm.com/in-clinic-salon X - https://twitter.com/DianeCBailey