The Trial Lawyer Winter 2022 | Page 66

Conclusion
The deep-rooted need for validation or acceptance in society has caused entire communities of people to go to extreme measures to achieve Eurocentric beauty standards . The use of hair relaxers by black and brown communities was a protection mechanism in hopes of retaining job security and preventing racial discrimination , but in the end , it led to widespread larger health concerns . Concerns with racial disparity in the healthcare system are not novel , and it ’ s no surprise that scientific studies are linking chemicals in cosmetic products to disproportionate adverse health effects in black and brown communities . As Malcolm X said , the black woman is the most unprotected , disrespected , and neglected person in America . One step towards breaking this stigma and rectifying the harm caused is holding these manufacturers responsible and removing these products from shelves .
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