Former Spice Girl Mel B is throwing her support behind a campaign advocating for emojis featuring Afro hair to be made available on global digital devices. A study conducted by youth-led group Rise 365 reveals that out of nearly 4,000 emojis, none represent individuals with hairstyles commonly embraced by Black or dual heritage communities.
Rise 365 is actively lobbying the Unicode Consortium, an organisation based in the US responsible for determining the distribution of emojis worldwide, to introduce more diverse symbols. Alongside Mel B, other notable figures have joined the cause, urging for the inclusion of Afro hair emojis. Earlier this month, Mel B also urged the UK government to pass legislation prohibiting discrimination against Afro-textured hair.
The campaign for Afro hair emojis is gaining traction during Black History Month, with Joyclen Brodie-Mends Buffong, founder of Rise 365, emphasising the importance of representation and combating texturism and discrimination related to Afro hair. The initiative aims to prompt discussions and raise awareness about these crucial issues.
Rise 365 has put forth four new emojis designed by the young people they work with, which will be submitted to Unicode in April for potential inclusion in the emoji keyboard. The absence of emojis featuring Afro-textured hair not only reflects a lack of diversity but also perpetuates texturism, a form of bias that marginalises individuals with kinkier, tighter-curled hair textures.
The significance of introducing Afro hair emojis goes beyond mere representation; it signifies a step towards inclusivity and equity for Black and mixed-race communities. By diversifying emoji options, Rise 365 and its supporters are aiming to bring about positive change and foster greater understanding and acceptance of all hair types.