In a momentous stride toward combatting racial hair discrimination, the Lawrence City Commission has resoundingly approved an ordinance that unequivocally denounces the imposition of “limitations or bans on natural hair or protective hairstyles.” This pioneering declaration, encompassing braids, locs, afros, curls, and twists, resoundingly affirms Lawrence’s commitment to upholding antidiscrimination principles.
This watershed moment in the fight for equality was ratified with unanimous support from the Lawrence City Commission on Tuesday. The ordinance’s significance was accentuated by the fact that it had previously garnered unanimous consent during its initial reading on August 15.
Farris Muhammad, Director of Equity and Inclusion in Lawrence, emphasized the ordinance’s resonance: “We recognize that natural hair styles and textures should be protected and respected as an inherent part of a person’s cultural and racial identity. In Lawrence, we want to dismantle anti-Black racism and make it safe for everyone to seek opportunities without fear of judgment or persecution based on their hair.”
At the crux of the protection against race-based hair discrimination lies the CROWN Act—an acronym for Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair. This legislative landmark not only acknowledges the importance of diverse hairstyles but also underscores the need to dismantle barriers rooted in discrimination.
Michele Watley, founder of Shirley’s Kitchen Cabinet, played a pivotal role in propelling this ordinance forward. Her presentation on the CROWN Act earlier this year catalyzed its inception, and she actively contributed to drafting its language in conjunction with the commission.
Watley expounded on the ordinance’s profound implications: “It’s bigger than just hair. It’s about building an equitable community where everyone, especially Black residents, can participate in our economy without unnecessary barriers. Ordinance No. 10003 eliminates loopholes that permitted racial discrimination based on hair, setting the stage for a more diverse workforce and bolstering our city’s economic health. This move underscores the power of representation in government and the impact of elected officials collaborating with the communities they serve.”
Research backed by Dove reveals disheartening statistics: Black women are 80% more inclined to alter their natural hair style at workplaces and are 1.5 times more likely to be sent home due to their chosen hairstyle. The Lawrence City Commission’s unanimous endorsement of the CROWN Act-inspired ordinance marks an epochal stride toward justice, diversity, and the eradication of prejudiced practices.
