Ban discrimination based on hairstyle and texture?
This bill would prohibit discrimination based on hair texture or hairstyle if the texture or style is commonly associated with a particular race or national origin. This prohibition of discrimination applies to any program receiving federal assistance, public accommodation programs, and employment. To enforce the act, aggrieved parties can file civil suits in federal courts similar to the enforcement mechanism of the Civil Rights Act.
Sponsor: Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (Democrat, New Jersey, District 21)
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Opponents say
• "Democrats are prioritizing this legislation, a bill to prohibit conduct already unlawful under our law, for political messaging reasons. This bill does not address any of the serious problems our country currently faces." Source: Rep. Jim Jordan (Republican, Ohio, District 4)
Proponents say
• "Black students are disciplined at a rate four times higher than any other racial or ethnic group, and research has found that 70 percent of all suspension disciplines are discretionary, many stemming from dress code violations that include hairstyles. The bias lens that makes curly hair or locs unprofessional – despite the fact it has nothing to do with job performance – holds Black people back from promotions and job opportunities." Source: Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (Democrat, New Jersey, District 21)
• "Implicit and explicit biases against natural hair are deeply ingrained in workplace norms and society at large and continue the legacy of dehumanizing Black people. This is a violation of our civil rights, and it happens every day across the country. No one should be harassed, punished, or fired for the beautiful hairstyles that are true to themselves and their cultural heritage." Source: Sen. Cory Booker (Democrat, New Jersey)
