Keke Palmer, Gabrielle Union, more celebs share Black hair discrimination stories in PSA

Keke Palmer, Gabrielle Union, Marsai Martin and Uzo Aduba are lending their voices to call out Black hair discrimination.

In a PSA released Tuesday as part of Glamour magazine's September issue, the actresses share stories submitted anonymously by 13 Black women across the country about discrimination they've faced over their natural hair.

The stars end the PSA, titled "I've Been Told …," by encouraging viewers to sign a petition for the CROWN Act, which would make race-based hair discrimination in hiring and education illegal.

In one of the stories, read by Union, a woman recalls how she debuted her natural hair at the office, only for her supervisor to ask if it "was forever." Palmer shares a story from a woman who says that human resources once told her that her hair looked "more professional" pulled back and in a bun.

"I am not my hair, but my hair is a part of who I am," says Union. "And it deserves the same respect as the person beneath it.

Martin shares a quote from a woman who's had "strangers walk up and pet me" and another from someone who's "seen children humiliated at school, getting suspended" over their hair. The teen also cites an incident where a teacher cut a girl's hair because "her beads were 'making too much noise.' "

"Those actions are bullying, discrimination, microaggressions and acts of racial injustice," Martin says.

Gabrielle Union talks 'AGT' exit, importance of Black-owned business at American Black Film Festival

Aduba shares a message from someone who's had her dreadlocks called "nice and clean" and another from someone who says wearing her natural hair is about more than just her appearance.

"I started my locks journey out of convenience," recites Aduba. "Now, it's an outright protest."

Union added that this "isn't just a hair issue."

"Hair discrimination is racial discrimination, period" she says. "Together we can make our schools and workplaces safer for all."

'Black-ish' star Marsai Martin, 15, reacts to critics of her looks during BET Awards: 'Let me live'

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Keke Palmer, more celebs call out Black hair discrimination in PSA