When it comes to natural hair, one thing every Black woman knows is this: shrinkage is real.
It’s not just a myth or a style trick—it’s science. Our hair can appear short and coiled when wet or dry, but stretch out to impressive lengths when blown out or straightened.
That’s why a resurfaced clip from The People’s Court with Judge Marilyn Milian is sparking heated conversation
Though this is not a recent case it brought to light how something so simple can make situation dangerous for black women in the legal system.
The woman presents video and photo evidence, explaining that her natural hair shrinks when wet. But Judge Milian dismisses the argument, saying she doesn’t believe hair could shrink that much—despite clear visual proof.
Instead of considering the well-documented reality of shrinkage, she rules in favor of the stylist, effectively invalidating the woman’s lived experience.
Watch:
Judge Milian is facing warranted criticism following a resurfaced case in which she made an ignorant and dismissive statement about Black hair
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???? Queen My My pic.twitter.com/wCdxUb1rIv
— Pan African Lifestyle (@panafricanlife) May 29, 2025
The internet quickly did what it does best—responded. Black women across platforms are now speaking out, not just about the injustice in this one case, but about what it symbolizes: a justice system that still lacks cultural competence.
This wasn’t just a misunderstanding about hair—it was a failure to understand the nuances of Black identity, and how those nuances show up in everyday life, even in small claims court.
I never liked Judge Milian the way she use to treat black women on her show. Girl……….I https://t.co/wYgMtdzSfO
— aimar (@MinnerMimi) May 30, 2025
This moment is a reminder of why representation matters, especially in places of power and judgment. Whether it’s judges, lawyers, or jurors, we need people in the room who understand our experiences—not because they read about them in a book, but because they’ve lived them. Cultural awareness isn’t optional in the legal system; it’s essential for fair treatment.
I cussed the TV out when she ruled against her. Judge Milian always get it wrong with black women hair cases though!! pic.twitter.com/p2ciMyqz5X
— ????✨️…Honey Badger don't give a Fuxk…✨️???? (@Negranomicon0) January 19, 2024
Because let’s be real—if Judge Milian had truly understood shrinkage, the photo and video evidence might have held more weight. And that Black woman might have walked away with not just a legal win, but a feeling that her truth mattered.
@silkconfidence How you gon be LOUD and WRONG at the same time ❗️ #fyp #millionviews #viralvideos #trendingvideo #blackhair #naturalhair ♬ original sound – Miss Shayla
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@ohshesweet_treat Judge Milian eduction on black hair. #blackhair #shrinkage #fyp #education ♬ original sound – OhSheAnna
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@maclarons Replying to @chuus niece shrinkage on coils is like a spring— when u pull on both ends at once, what happens? btw i will forever love my shrunken hair though, and i hope others can learn to love theirs too! it’s so kyoottt!! #type4hair #coilyhair #4b4chair #shrinkage #afro #hairtok #fypシ゚viral ♬ original sound – daquan
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