Diversity Without Inclusion: The Constant Need to Conform Within Medicine
A well-meaning colleague jokingly asked, “They let you wear your hair like that?” I paused and quickly responded, “Who would tell me to do anything with my hair?” (A.J.M.). I suddenly realized my privilege, not a common occurrence as a Black male from Baltimore City. Who would make the presumption of suggesting I change my appearance to conform to the norm? I thought of prior conversations with mentees who planned to cut their natural hair (ie, not altered by chemical products such as chemical straighteners/relaxers; eg, braids, Afros) and adopt commonly accepted styles (ie, short hair cuts, chemically straightened hair) before medical school and residency interviews.
