Megyn Kelly Criticizes Michelle Obama on Black Women’s Hair
Michelle Obama has openly discussed the pressures she faced as the first Black First Lady. In her new picture book, The Look, Obama reflects on some of her most memorable fashion and beauty moments, including the scrutiny over her style.
Black women have long spoken out about the harsh judgments and discrimination related to their natural hair, especially in professional settings. This issue contributed to the creation of the CROWN Act in 2019, designed to prevent hair discrimination.
Megyn Kelly's Response
Conservative commentator Megyn Kelly challenged Obama’s experiences, claiming that Black women do not truly struggle with their hair. On her podcast, Kelly said,
“That is bullsh*t. Black women can walk around with whatever hair they want. Only in Michelle Obama’s warped mind, do white people not like them, unless their hair looks like white hair.”
However, this does not align with what Michelle Obama actually expressed. The former First Lady told PEOPLE that she often worried her hair might become a distraction from the political work of the Obama administration.
Context on Natural Hair Discrimination
- Black women have faced criticism and workplace discrimination due to their natural hairstyles.
- The CROWN Act, enacted in 2019, was created to address and prohibit this discrimination.
Obama's Perspective
Michelle Obama emphasized her concern about public perception and how her appearance could impact the focus on their political goals, rather than claiming all Black women face uniform treatment.
“I often didn’t want my hair to become a distraction,” she shared.
Author's summary: This controversy highlights the differing views on natural hair discrimination, with Michelle Obama expressing genuine concern and Megyn Kelly dismissing those experiences as exaggerated.