Introducing Code My Crown: A Groundbreaking Initiative by Dove and Open Source Afro Hair Library

Dove, in partnership with the Open Source Afro Hair Library, has launched the innovative Code My Crown guide. This complimentary downloadable resource is tailored to provide game developers with comprehensive instructions, detailed references, and accessible source code, all aimed at creating authentic and varied Black hairstyles in video games. The initiative stems from the long-standing issue of inadequate hairstyle options for Black characters in games, a problem that persists despite gradual improvements over the years. Often, games offer limited choices, with afro-textured hair frequently being introduced as downloadable content post-launch. Code My Crown is the culmination of a collaborative effort involving members of the Open Source Afro Hair Library, independent artists, and professional natural hair stylists. Key contributors to the project include A.M. Darke, founder of the Open Source Afro Hair Library, renowned celebrity hairstylist Nai'Vasha Grace, and skilled 3D artist Isaac Olander. As highlighted in the guide, A.M. Darke emphasizes, "Black hair embodies the same vibrancy, dynamism, and constant evolution as Black culture itself."