The Catalyst for Change in the Natural Haircare Industry

The Natural Hairstyle & Braid Coalition (NHBC) is a group of stylists and other beauty and justice-focused professionals who are working to create an inclusive, diverse, hygienic, safe, and economically sustainable pathway for natural hair care and texture professionals.

The NHBC was founded in 1993 by licensed braider and founder of International I Love Braids Day (IILBD), Debra Hare-Bey, and activist, master pioneer, educator, and author, Diane C. Bailey. The two women were instrumental in passing the Natural Hairstyling Licence into New York State law, the first of its kind in the country.

Today, the NHBC is still fighting to protect natural hair licensing amidst multiple deregulation attempts in the Empire State. In 2021, the pair joined forces with Textured Hair Master Pioneer Expert and author, Diane Da Costa; Educator and NYS Appearance Enhancement Advisory Committee Appointee, Erin H. Maybin, and Emmy award-winning producer Natasha Gaspard along with the Center for Law and Social Justice, the NYC Black Political Women’s Club and Models of Color Matter to form the Natural Hairstyle and Braid Coalition (NHBC) to protect and update the existing license.

The NHBC is committed to creating a more inclusive and diverse hair care industry. They believe that everyone, regardless of their hair texture or style, deserves to have access to safe, high-quality hair care services.

The NHBC works to achieve its goals through a variety of initiatives, including:

• Advocating for policies that protect natural hair licensing
• Providing education and training to hair care professionals
• Promoting diversity and inclusion in the hair care industry

The NHBC is also working to develop a new curriculum for the Natural Hairstyling License. The new curriculum will be more comprehensive and inclusive, and will reflect the latest trends and techniques in natural hair care.

The NHBC is a leading force in the fight for inclusion and diversity in the hair care industry. They are committed to creating a more equitable and accessible hair care industry for everyone.

If you are interested in learning more about the NHBC, or if you would like to get involved in their work, please visit their website at www.nhbcoalition.org.

The NHBC needs your help to continue their fight for inclusion and diversity in the hair care industry. Please visit their website to learn more about how you can get involved.