Despite the abolition of slavery in all British colonies, including The Bahamas, 189 years ago, its consequences are still felt in the daily lives of Black Bahamian students today. During slavery, black people's hair was compared to that of animals; it was even said that black hair resembled the wool of an animal. These assertions supported the unfair and cruel treatment our forefathers endured that has unfortunately been passed down to us.

These draconian ideals and viewpoints still exist today, particularly in Bahamian schools where male students, particularly those of color, are required to cut their hair because failing to do so is seen as untidy, unprofessional, distracting, and detrimental to your capacity to learn. Our peers who are white or have lighter skin, however, are given a unique exemption from these restrictions. These regulations are largely present in schools because there is a lot of self-hatred in The Bahamas, even though most people are of African descent and would have experienced the very same issues.

No matter what kind of hair you have—straight, curly, long, wavy, or nappy—I believe that you should be encouraged to wear it with pride and use it to express who you are and what you stand for, whether you're black or white. I am calling on the Government of The Bahamas, Private Institutions, and Educational Boards. We the younger and upcoming generation, want to be freed from this type of discrimination and infringement on our culture, kindly sign our petition. Let's make this happen!