A Google search for "unprofessional hairstyles" only shows black women with natural hair, braids or twists.
On Monday, the California state Senate unanimously passed a bill that would ban d*iscrimination based on hair associated with race. Essentially, schools and workplaces throughout the state won't be able to enf*orce dress codes that forbid natural styles, such as afros or braids.
Bill SB-188 D*iscrimination: hairstyles, also known as the C.R.O.W.N. Act (Create a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair), was introduced by Los Angeles Senator Holly J. Mitchell. It updates California's anti-d*iscrimination laws, noting that the definition of race "also include traits historically associated with race," including, but not limited to, "hair texture and protective hairstyles, and would define protective hairstyles for purposes of these provisions."
SB 188. The CROWN Act. #MyCrown pic.twitter.com/OcrG7Is5bU
— Holly J Mitchell (@HollyJMitchell) February 24, 2019
The bill further states that societal understanding of professionalism is closely linked to European features and mannerisms, entailing those who don't naturally fall into Eurocentric norms to alter their appearance in order to be deemed professional.
"Workplace dress code and grooming policies that prohibit natural hair, including afros, braids, twists, and locks, have a disparate impact on Black individuals as these policies are more likely to deter Black applicants and burden or punish Black employees than any other group," it states.
In a speech before the vote, Mitchell said that a Google search for "unprofessional hairstyles" only showed black women with natural hair, braids or twists, something she called "disheartening", but not very surprising.
"SB-188 protects black employees and students from being f*orced to conform to a non-inclusive idea of a professional image at the expense of their personal choice," she noted.
The bill easily passed in a 37-0 vote and will now move forward to the State Assembly.
Watch Mitchell's speech below:
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