Hairy Issues: Legislation passes in New Jersey to end discrimination against natural hair in New Jersey

Dec 20

Article By EEW Magazine Online // Natural Hair // Civil Rights

EEW Magazine Online commends New Jersey for becoming the third state leading the fight to ban discrimination against black students and employees over their natural hairstyles.

The CROWN Act—Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural hair— passed in the state legislature of New Jersey on Dec. 16, thanks to the efforts of National Urban League, Color Of Change, Western Center on Law & Poverty, and Dove.

The bill, introduced by Senator Sandra B. Cunningham and Assemblywoman Angela V. McKnight, addresses unfair grooming policies that have a disparate negative impact on black women, men and children.

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The passing of The CROWN Act in New Jersey will ensure that young students like Andrew Johnson, the 16-year old wrestler from Buena Regional High School in Buena, New Jersey, will not be forced to make a decision of having his locs cut or forfeiting an earned match. Unfortunately, this was something he was asked to do during the infamous December 19, 2018 incident when the freedom to wear his hair in a natural protective hairstyle was denied for no justifiable reason.

"In 2019, it is unfortunate we have to pass legislation to further expand the definition of discrimination to include something as natural and organic as how our hair grows from our heads," said Senator B. Cunningham.

Assemblywoman Angela McKnight said, “This is so exciting that we are really this close to making sure no one in New Jersey will ever legally experience having to cut their hair or change their hair texture in order to play a sport or work at a particular place. I'm so proud of my state for moving this bill along so quickly.”

McKnight added, "The fact that this bill passed the General Assembly overwhelmingly with bipartisan support proves that this isn't a partisan issue but rather a human rights issue that we can all agree upon. I commend my colleagues across the table for standing up for civil rights."

Those that would like to join the movement that is creating real change and aiding the efforts to ensure black men, women, and children feel confident in expressing themselves can sign the petition at www.TheCROWNAct.com.

Signing the petition helps end discrimination and shows you how you can get involved in bringing anti-hair discrimination legislation to your state.