When we think about diversity, equity and inclusion, we often forget how biases or perceptions of professionalism can apply to employee hairstyles. While there is currently no federal law prohibiting hairstyle discrimination, several states and localities have passed related laws. National CROWN Day is the commemoration of the inaugural signing of the first CROWN Act legislation in the U.S. in 2019 to “create a respectful and open world for natural hair” (CROWN,). The legislation also ensures that people with unique hairstyles like locs, Bantu Knots or afros, aren’t deprived of educational and employment  opportunities.   Currently CA, NY, NJ, MD, VA, CO, WA, CT, DE, NM, NV, NE, OR, IL ME, TN and TX have CROWN regulations in place and will celebrate National Crown Day on July 3.

For more information visit:

https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/behavioral-competencies/global-and-cultural-effectiveness/pages/crown-act-does-your-state-prohibit-hair-discrimination.aspx