To: Department of the Army Uniform Board, Leadership, and Congress

As an active-duty Soldier, I request a change to Army Regulation (AR) 670-1, specifically regarding hair for male Soldiers. Currently, male Soldiers are prohibited from wearing braids, cornrows, and locks — styles that are acceptable for women. I propose that these same styles be allowed for men, under the same neatness and professionalism standards already outlined for women in the Army.

Why This Matters:

Cultural Significance: Braids, cornrows, and locks are important to many Soldiers’ cultural identity, especially Black men. Allowing these hairstyles would promote diversity and respect for cultural expression within the Army.

Recruitment and Retention: Allowing these hairstyles will make the Army more attractive to recruits from diverse backgrounds, showing the Army values cultural diversity. This can help recruit and retain Soldiers who might otherwise feel excluded.

Professionalism: These styles can be neat, uniform, and professional when maintained properly. There’s no reason to restrict them for men when they’re already deemed appropriate for women — the only difference is gender.

Equal Opportunity Concern:
Banning braids, cornrows, and locks for male Soldiers—while allowing them for female Soldiers—creates a gender-based double standard. This goes against the Army’s Equal Opportunity policy, which promotes fairness and equal treatment for all Soldiers, regardless of gender or cultural background.

Health and Comfort: Many Soldiers experience scalp irritation or hair loss from shaving or closely cropping their hair. Braids, locks, or cornrows can be more comfortable, low-maintenance options that still meet military standards.

What We’re Asking:
We request that AR 670-1 be updated to allow male Soldiers to wear neat braids, cornrows, and locks, as long as they don’t interfere with headgear and remain professional in appearance. This change would promote inclusivity while maintaining military standards and professionalism.

How You Can Help:
By signing this petition, you support a more inclusive Army. Your voice matters—together, we can ensure all Soldiers, regardless of gender, can express their culture while maintaining professionalism. Please share this petition to help drive change.