Army's New Hair Regulations Called 'Racially Biased'

The United States Army has banned certain hair styles, including corn rows. Some are calling the move racially biased against black women.

"The new grooming rules went into effect Monday. They say soldiers cannot wear natural twists and braids can be no longer than a quarter inch." (Via WRAL)

Critics launched a petition March 20, which already has more than 6,500 signatures. Part of it reads, "These new changes are racially biased and the lack of regard for ethnic hair is apparent." (Via The White House)

"Petitioners hope that the president will order the Army to reconsider those regulations." (Via WAGA)

WAWS spoke with a man who retired after 16 years in the Air Force and currently has a daughter serving in the Army. He says she pins her hair back up in her hat.

"When you get into trying to regulate culture, you cross a fine line. Generally, the people making the rules are people not affected by the rules."

"Right now, more than 30 percent of women in the armed forces are minorities."

But according to The Huffington Post, an Army spokesman at the Pentagon said the hair grooming standards were "necessary to maintain uniformity within a military population."

The spokesman also noted many hairstyles are acceptable, and that headgear is expected to fit snug without bulgings.