Mobilizing Support for Inclusive Licensing Exams in Kentucky: An Ongoing Struggle
Introduction: In the ever-evolving beauty industry, diversity and inclusivity are crucial. Recently, a petition has been addressed to the Kentucky State Board of Hairdressers and Cosmetologists (State Board) to bring about much-needed changes in the PSI exams for beauty professionals. The petition calls for the availability of the theory portion of the exam in multiple languages and the removal of the cap on the number of examination attempts within the existing 5-year time frame. Despite the importance of these changes for the immigrant community, the petition has not gained traction as expected.
Petition Details: The petition proposes that the State Board should permit the written portion of the exams for Cosmetologists, Nail Technicians, Estheticians, and instructors to be conducted in multiple languages, as the PSI already offers this option. This will benefit individuals for whom English is a second language, as they often face barriers in taking the exam in English. Moreover, the petition calls for eliminating the limit on the number of examination attempts, as struggling with language barriers often necessitates multiple attempts.
Current Status: As of September 2021, the petition has been shared within immigrant communities. However, surprisingly, only 65 individuals have signed it, and most of them are not from the immigrant community. This is despite Di Tran, the president of the New American Business Association, receiving feedback from many within the immigrant community who express a desire for such changes.
Reasons for Lack of Participation: Several reasons could explain the lack of participation from the immigrant community in supporting this petition:
- Lack of Awareness: Many may not be aware of the petition or understand its implications fully.
- Fear of Repercussions: Some individuals might hesitate to sign the petition due to concerns about drawing attention to themselves, especially if they have immigration-related worries.
- Digital Divide: Access to online platforms where the petition can be signed may be limited among some sections of the immigrant community.
- Language Barriers: The petition might not be available or promoted in languages other than English, which could be a hurdle for non-English speakers.
- Distrust in Change: There might be a general distrust or skepticism regarding the effectiveness of petitions in bringing about change.
The Need for Support: For reforms like this to take place, participation is essential. Widespread support not only legitimizes the concerns but also puts pressure on decision-makers. The immigrant community, and supporters at large, need to understand the weight their signatures carry in advocating for more inclusive licensing exams.
Conclusion: While the petition for more inclusive PSI exams in Kentucky is grounded in genuine concerns, its success relies on broad-based support, particularly from the immigrant community it seeks to assist. Through enhanced outreach, awareness campaigns, and community mobilization, it is crucial to encourage more signatures for this worthy cause. A collective effort can pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable environment for aspiring beauty professionals in Kentucky.
