TY - JOUR T1 - Can I touch my black colleague’s hair? JF - BMJ JO - BMJ DO - 10.1136/bmj.q1876 VL - 386 SP - q1876 AU - Rimmer, Abi Y1 - 2024/09/23 UR - https://www.bmj.com/content/386/bmj.q1876.abstract N2 - While it might seem like harmless curiosity, it’s intrusive and unprofessional, Abi Rimmer hearsRachael Harlow, clinical research fellow in pharmaceutical medicine, says, “The short answer is no—but let’s explore why it’s inappropriate to touch a colleague’s hair.“Curiosity about different hair textures isn’t often malicious—but remember this is a professional setting. Hair is part of a person’s body, and touching a colleague’s body at work is not appropriate. Conversations about hair at work are rarely welcomed. Be respectful and avoid sensitive topics unless you can navigate them with respect. “Black colleagues are not exhibits or pets. Even a polite request to touch someone’s hair—not that I think there is such a thing, but for argument’s sake let’s entertain the idea—can feel dehumanising. Black professionals in the NHS already face extra challenges, including higher rates of disciplinary action,1 harassment,2 and lower annual review of competency progression scores,3 and adding to that list diminishes their personhood and dignity. This is a professional, and a human being.“Your behaviour influences workplace culture. Treating black colleagues with … ER -