Are you aware of hair discrimination? While it may not be recognized as often as other forms of bias, it is a widespread problem that significantly impacts many people, especially those within the Black community.
Hair discrimination is the bias or prejudice against individuals with hairstyles or textures, typically those with a specific race or ethnicity. Hair discrimination, particularly against styles like Afros, braids, locs, or twists and natural hairstyles that are inherent to the Black community. Hair discrimination includes unfair treatment, stereotypes, mischaracterized as unprofessional or untidy, or judgments based on hair appearance. In certain instances, individuals have been refused employment opportunities, subjected to penalties at school, or faced other adverse effects simply due to their natural hair or hairstyles linked to their racial or ethnic identity, compelling many to alter their hair.
#What is the Crown Act?
The CROWN Act, an acronym for "Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair," introduced in California in 2019, is a landmark legislation seeking to eliminate discrimination based on hair textures and styles. It emphasizes that businesses and organizations need to expand their policies to ensure inclusivity, embracing not just race, religion, or gender but also hair diversity. The CROWN Act, by banning hair discrimination, aids in promoting a more inclusive society that respects and appreciates racial and ethnic differences.
To gain a more in-depth understanding of the CROWN Act, its origins, and societal implications, I recommend visiting the Official CROWN Act Home — The Official CROWN Act thecrownact.com website and the insightful The CROWN Act - Dove campaign on this subject.
# National Crown Day
National Crown Day, celebrated annually on July 3rd, is set aside to acknowledge the anniversary of the CROWN Act's signing in California. It's a day to commemorate, raise awareness, and encourage dialogue and action against hair discrimination. National Crown Day serves as a platform for nationwide discussions on hair diversity, celebrating the beauty of natural hair, and understanding the socio-cultural implications of hair bias.
# The Importance of the Crown Act and National Crown Day
The CROWN Act and National Crown Day are about far more than hair. They are about acceptance, respect, and creating an environment where individuals do not need to alter their natural or cultural hairstyles to fit a narrow, discriminatory standard of appearance. These measures help fight against deeply ingrained racial prejudices and micro-aggressions. They counteract the idea that natural Black hair is "unprofessional," "untidy," or "unattractive" and affirm the importance of respecting and celebrating racial and ethnic diversity. Additionally, National Crown Day acts as a catalyst for education. It provides an opportunity to educate people on the history and cultural significance of different hairstyles within the Black community, fostering understanding and appreciation.
Awareness is the first step toward change. An understanding of hair discrimination, the CROWN Act, and National Crown Day are essential in fostering a society that acknowledges, respects, and celebrates natural hair and hairstyles. They serve as a reminder that our natural hair is a part of our identity and cultural heritage that should be embraced and respected rather than discriminated against. As professionals, it's our responsibility to stay informed and proactive, guiding our organizations toward a future where hair discrimination is eliminated.
On this National Crown Day, let's celebrate natural hair in all its beautiful forms and commit ourselves to advocate for a more inclusive and respectful society.
In 2022 Good Morning America offers an overview of National Crown Day and the advancements in legislation. National Crown Day 2022: 16 states have passed laws to ban natural hair discrimination - Good Morning America
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