The CROWN Act bill, and what it means for children of African descent.

On March 18, 2022, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the CROWN Act:

This bill prohibits discrimination based on a person’s hair texture or hairstyle if that style or texture is commonly associated with a particular race or national origin. Specifically, the bill prohibits this type of discrimination against those participating in federally assisted programs, housing programs, public accommodations, and employment. Persons shall not be deprived of equal rights under the law and shall not be subjected to prohibited practices based on their hair texture or style. The bill provides for enforcement procedures under the applicable laws.

It is a pity that people of African descent must even go through this about our hair. So, how does this bill affect children of African descent with natural hair? Are all children protected by the CROWN Act, state by state? The answer is yes and no, unfortunately. Until the U.S. President signs this bill into law to make it a federal offense in the U.S., there are a few states where the CROWN Act is Law. To read this bill in-depth, click here.

People of African descent have suffered for generations and continue to endure systemic racism and discrimination. Scientific research continues to prove the effects of our reality through Epigenetics (how lifelong racism & discrimination altars our genes), Inherited Trauma, Racial Disparities in Maternal & Infant Mortality, Health Disparities in the Black Community, and many, many more sadly. Furthermore, far too many stories have been reported in the mainstream media about the humiliation children of African descent endure being sent home from school because of their God-given hair or threatened to be ejected from a competition they’ve worked so hard for. In addition to this being humiliating, it is traumatizing.

So what can we do as moms, dads, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and caregivers? In addition to signing petitions, we have the right to contact our senators to pass the CROWN Act in the states that we reside in-that are not on the list of Passed. Lastly, you can also join a coalition involved. Also, never forget that you are your child’s best advocate! Let’s do this for our future generation of children!

Let’s break this stigma together! -4 All Coils

Photo Credit: WillaimCho, Pixabay, License CC Public Domain