What Exactly Is the CROWN Act?
, by LiuYong, 5 min reading time
Are you familiar with the CROWN Act?
The CROWN Act stands for Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair Act. This legislation offers vital protections against race-based hair discrimination, specifically prohibiting bias based on hair texture and protective hairstyles such as braids, twists, and locs. While numerous states have passed laws inspired by this act, there is currently no federal law in the United States that explicitly bans hair discrimination.
For many Black individuals, hair is far more than a style — it is a symbol of identity, pride, and cultural heritage. Hair is often referred to as a “crown,” deeply rooted in ancestral history and tradition. Yet, the natural coils, locs, and braids that so many wear proudly are frequently labeled “unkempt” or “unprofessional” in public and professional settings. For decades, Black hair has been unfairly scrutinized and regulated, from workplaces to schools. To combat this injustice, various cities and states have enacted legislation aimed at eradicating hair-based discrimination.
Eliminating Hair Discrimination
In June 2019, California became the first state to officially ban racial discrimination based on natural hairstyles. The bill, known as SB 188, passed the state Senate in April and was unanimously approved by the California State Assembly on June 27, 2019.
While Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits racial discrimination, its protections regarding hair were limited—primarily protecting afros. California’s groundbreaking legislation extends these protections to all natural hairstyles, including braids, twists, locs, and knots, ensuring individuals cannot be discriminated against in workplaces and public K-12 schools because of their hair.
This law has been strongly supported by advocates who highlight how Black Americans have historically faced exclusion and prejudice in professional and educational environments due to their hair.
Hairstyles Protected Under the Law
Although specific wording varies among different state laws, the core principle remains consistent: discrimination based on hairstyles closely associated with race or culture is illegal. These hairstyles often include Black cultural hair textures and styles such as locs, braids, and Bantu knots.
These “protective hairstyles” serve an important function beyond aesthetics—they help preserve the health of natural hair by reducing damage and breakage. By tucking strands away, they protect hair from excessive stress and heat damage from styling tools like flat irons, promoting stronger, healthier hair growth.
A History of Hair Discrimination
Discrimination against protective hairstyles is not a new phenomenon. According to Adjoa B. Asamoah, lead legislative strategist and co-creator of the CROWN Coalition—a national advocacy group fighting to end hair discrimination—this prejudice dates back to the era of slavery. She explains that for many Black people, hair care is deeply intertwined with family, community, and cultural identity. For example, bonding moments such as wash day or getting braids often strengthen familial ties.
Despite its cultural significance, Black hair has long been stigmatized. Historically, it has been described in derogatory terms such as “unsightly” or “wool.” In 1786, Louisiana’s Tignon Laws mandated that Black women cover their hair with cloth; many resisted by creating elaborate headwraps and styles.
Today, hair discrimination typically manifests through workplace and school dress codes that uphold European beauty standards, often marginalizing Black hair textures and styles. This bias can lead to severe consequences: people being fired, denied promotions, or losing job offers due to their hair. It also contributes to negative educational experiences for many Black children, who have been disciplined or excluded because of their natural hairstyles.
The campaign behind this movement is led by a coalition founded by organizations including DOVE, the National Urban League, Color of Change, and the Western Center on Law and Poverty. So far, 27 states have enacted laws banning hair discrimination, with 23 states yet to follow:
Fast Facts About Hair Discrimination
According to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, Black hair holds deep historical and emotional significance. Styles like cornrows, locs, twists, afros, and Bantu knots are powerful symbols of Black pride, culture, religion, and history.
Despite this, many Black adults, students, and military members still face hair discrimination. Research from Dove highlights the following:
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Black women are often pressured to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards.
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They are 80% more likely to alter their natural hair to meet workplace expectations.
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83% report being judged more harshly based on their appearance.
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Black women are 1.5 times more likely to be sent home or know someone sent home from work due to their hair.
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They are consistently rated lower or considered “less ready” for job performance because of their hairstyle.
Federal Progress and What’s Next
On March 18, 2022, the CROWN Act successfully passed in the U.S. House of Representatives but was blocked in the Senate. For it to become federal law, the bill must be reintroduced, passed by the Senate with at least 51 votes, and then signed by the President. While the legislative process may seem slow and complex, individual voices and advocacy remain powerful tools for change.
How You Can Help
There are several ways you can contribute to ending hair discrimination in workplaces and public schools:
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Join the Coalition: The coalition is made up of advocacy groups and non-governmental organizations committed to eliminating hair bias and discrimination across the U.S. If your organization is interested in joining, more information is available on the official website.
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Sign the Petition: A petition has been created to support ending hair discrimination in both workplaces and schools. It currently has nearly 539,000 signatures, with a goal of reaching 600,000. Adding your signature helps amplify the movement.
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Introduce the Act in Your State: If you want to bring this important legislation to your state, the website offers toolkits and resources that provide comprehensive guidance on how to get involved and advocate effectively.
