US Army | Ponytails, braids and earrings are now allowed

France Media Agency

The military announced at a public meeting in July that it would allow female hairstyles suitable for all types of hair, following an investigation by former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper during a debate on racism in American forces.

For a military woman with long hair, the hitherto mandatory smooth bun now leads to a ponytail if she has straight hair or, if her hair is curly or messy, to fingers that can be pulled back. Or head at the top.

These hairstyles have the power, if they do not interfere with wearing a uniform or helmet, to refer to documents made public at this meeting.

Women who want to wear their hair short, or shave their head completely are now allowed to do so.

Earrings are allowed, but they must be prudent. They are banned in intervention theaters.

Lipstick is also allowed, but in neutral shades, like nail polish, it is now permissible for men to work in an environment where their hands are in frequent contact with harsh chemicals. “Extreme” color varnish (blue, black, ple da or fluorescent) is prohibited.

Since the death of George Floyd in late May, a black man who was killed when he was arrested by a white policeman, the United States military, is one of the most represented organizations for minorities in the United States. Big internal debate on racism.

It bans the Confederate flag on all U.S. military bases, where the banner, which appears to be a symbol of racism, is often displayed in barracks or ordinary rooms.

The idea, which was opposed by former US President Donald Trump, was put forward by the Pentagon in favor of changing the name of military bases honored by Confederate generals.