Press Releases

Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chair Marcia L. Fudge released the following statement on Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel’s response outlining changes made to AR-6701, “Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia”, that previously listed natural hairstyles traditionally worn by women of color as unauthorized. Women Members of the CBC wrote Secretary Hagel asking him to reconsider the language and impact used in the updated regulation. Secretary Hagel’s response outlining the changes made to the regulation can be downloaded here.

“I’d like to thank Secretary Hagel for his prompt attention and response to the concerns expressed by women of color serving within our Armed Forces and to the women of the Congressional Black Caucus. Secretary Hagel immediately instituted a review process that has resulted in adjustments to policy language and grooming standards across the Army, Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps. These changes recognize that traditional hairstyles worn by women of color are often necessary to meet our unique needs, and acknowledges that these hairstyles do not result in or reflect less professionalism or commitment to the high standards required to serve within our Armed Forces.

“With these changes, Secretary Hagel and the Department of Defense not only show they are responsive to the individuals who serve within our military, but that he and his leadership respect them as well. The Congressional Black Caucus commends Secretary Hagel for his leadership in addressing this issue.” 

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