The CROWN Act

In a world where individuality and diversity should be celebrated, discrimination based on one's appearance remains a pressing issue. A significant aspect of this discrimination is focused on hairstyles, especially among people of color. In response to this, the CROWN Act (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair) has emerged as a crucial legal step to combat hairstyle discrimination. This article delves into the significance of the CROWN Act, its impact on communities, and the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance.

The Prevalence of Hairstyle Discrimination

Hairstyle discrimination is a deeply rooted problem that disproportionately affects people of color, especially those with natural, textured hair. This form of discrimination typically manifests in workplaces, schools, and public spaces, where people have faced bias and prejudice due to their natural hairstyles such as braids, dreadlocks, twists, and afros.

African Americans, in particular, have long struggled with hairstyle discrimination, leading to a sense of inequality and unfair treatment. Here are a few examples;

• "I couldn't believe it when they told me my dreadlocks were 'unprofessional' for the workplace. My skills and qualifications were ignored just because of my hairstyle," expressed Michael Johnson, a victim of hairstyle discrimination in the corporate world.
• "I faced ridicule and mockery for my natural hair throughout my school years. It made me feel ashamed of who I was, and I wish no one had to go through what I did," shared Lisa Carter, a young woman who suffered discrimination in educational institutions.

Many have had to endure insensitive remarks, being denied job opportunities, or even being sent home from schools because of their hair.

The Emergence of the CROWN Act

The CROWN Act, first introduced in California in 2019, was a groundbreaking step towards ending hairstyle discrimination. The law aimed to amend existing anti-discrimination regulations to include protection based on hairstyles and hair textures, recognizing them as inherent aspects of race and ethnicity.

Since its inception, the CROWN Act has gained significant momentum, spreading across several states in the United States. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, numerous states, including New York, New Jersey, Virginia, and Colorado, had already passed the CROWN Act, protecting people from hairstyle discrimination in various contexts.

Impact on Communities

The passage of the CROWN Act has had a profound impact on communities that have been adversely affected by hairstyle discrimination. By acknowledging the significance of natural hairstyles and protecting individuals from discrimination, the Act has taken a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive and accepting society.

The Act's influence goes beyond legal protections. It has empowered individuals to embrace their natural hair and cultural identities without fear of reprisal. It sends a message that everyone should be free to express their authentic selves, irrespective of their hairstyle.

Statistics on Hairstyle Discrimination

According to a study conducted by the Perception Institute, black women's hair is three times more likely to be perceived as unprofessional compared to white women's hair. Moreover, black women are 1.5 times more likely to be sent home from the workplace due to their hairstyles.

A survey by the National Urban League found that 80% of black women felt the need to change their hairstyles to fit into corporate environments. This highlights the significant pressure placed on individuals to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards in professional settings.

The CROWN Act stands as a vital shield against the discriminatory practices that have persisted for far too long. By granting protection to natural hairstyles, it sends a powerful message of acceptance and promotes a society where diversity and individuality are embraced and celebrated. However, the fight against hairstyle discrimination is ongoing, and it requires collective efforts from individuals, communities, and lawmakers to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their appearance. Only then can we truly create a respectful and open world for natural hair.