The delayed 2020 Olympics has already made a boast of controversial decisions regarding its competitors - from banning female athletes because of high testosterone levels or marijuana use.

One of the biggest controversies came from banning the use of “Soul Caps” - swimming caps specifically designed for afros, long dreadlocks, and other thick, curly hairstyles. Claiming these caps “don’t follow the natural fork of the head”, this decision spurred a wave of backlash. Especially since many, if not all, of the women restricted from participating in the Olympics have been Black. One wonders if these decisions are rooted in anti-Blackness.

As afro hair is usually drier than other hair types, the water in swimming pools can dry and damage unprotected hair. This is a barrier is water sports, and may be keeping underrepresented populations from competing, or just enjoying themselves.

However, the governing board for water sports has seen the backlash, and are reportedly “reviewing the situation” when it comes to Soul Caps.

Soul caps has received a wave of support, and if you go on their website, a message at the top mentions their overwhelming amount of orders! Hopefully this public support can bring about good change, and make the olympics just a little more accessible.