California To Ban Natural Hair Discrimination

(Photo Credit: myhaloe.com)

Natural Hair Embraced In California

In a historic and bold move, the state of California is slated to become the first state to ban natural hair discrimination. As reported by the New York Times, the California State Assembly voted unanimously to pass a bill banning racial discrimination against people wearing natural hairstyles.

Other states have introduced definitions of racial discrimination to include a broader range of hair textures or styles, but none have moved so far as California. Called the CROWN Act – “Create a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair”— it is expected to be signed into law by California Gov. Gavin Newsom.

“This is a fundamental issue of personal dignity and personal rights,” said State Sen. Holly Mitchell to the New York Times. “This bill has truly struck a deeply personal chord with people because there is something so deeply personally offensive when you are told that your hair, in its natural state, is not acceptable in the workplace.”

Sen. Mitchell introduced the measure, which was co-founded by Dove.

The bill will redefine old definitions of race to be more inclusive of hair textures and hairstyles that have historically been associated with race. Should the bill come to pass, saying that people with natural hair texture such as dreadlocks or cornrows is unacceptable will be prohibited?

By: Maytinee Kramer