Pennsylvania Takes a Stand Against Hair Discrimination
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro made history by signing a bill that officially outlaws "hair discrimination" within the state. This landmark legislation adds "protective hairstyles" to the definition of race under Pennsylvania’s Human Relations Act, ensuring that individuals cannot face discrimination based on their natural hair texture or style.
The new law, known as the CROWN (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair) Act, is a significant step toward promoting equality and respect in both educational and professional settings. By including "hair texture" and "protective hairstyles" under the umbrella of race, the law makes it illegal to discriminate against someone simply because of how they wear their hair—just as it would be illegal to discriminate based on skin color.
Governor Shapiro emphasized the importance of this change during the signing ceremony, stating:
"For too long, many Pennsylvanians have faced discrimination simply for hairstyles that reflect their identity and culture. That ends today. Today, when I signed the CROWN Act into law, that will be the next step in making good on that promise of bringing about real freedom for all Pennsylvanians."
He went on to highlight that the issue of hair discrimination disproportionately affects Black Pennsylvanians who choose to wear protective styles such as locks, braids, twists, and other natural hairdos. These styles are often seen as cultural expressions, yet they can lead to unfair treatment in workplaces and schools.
Shapiro pointed out that this discrimination can take many forms, from being fired for looking a certain way to being passed over for a job due to one's hairstyle. He stressed that such practices are not only unacceptable but will now be illegal under the new law.
During the signing event, a group of Pennsylvanians in attendance cheered as Shapiro officially enacted the bill into law. The moment was a powerful demonstration of support for the rights of individuals to express their identity without fear of prejudice.
A Growing Movement Across the United States
The CROWN Act is not a new concept. It was first introduced in California in 2019, where it was signed into law by then-Governor Gavin Newsom. Since its inception, the movement has gained momentum across the country. As of now, a dozen other states have adopted similar legislation, including New York, New Jersey, Texas, and Michigan.
This growing trend reflects a broader societal shift toward recognizing the importance of personal expression and cultural identity. By protecting individuals from discrimination based on their natural hair, these laws aim to create more inclusive environments in both public and private sectors.
The passage of the CROWN Act in Pennsylvania marks another milestone in the fight for equality. It sends a clear message that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their appearance or cultural background.
As the law takes effect, it is expected to have a lasting impact on the lives of Pennsylvanians, particularly those who have historically faced bias and exclusion due to their hairstyles. The state is now taking a bold step toward a future where diversity is celebrated and individuality is protected.
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