How many states have the Crown Act? This question has sparked a heated debate among legal experts, activists, and policymakers across the United States. The Crown Act, also known as the CROWN (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair) Act, is a federal legislation aimed at protecting individuals from discrimination based on their natural hair textures. As of now, several states have already passed their versions of the Crown Act, but the number varies from state to state.
The Crown Act was initially introduced in California in 2019, and it quickly gained momentum across the nation. The bill was named after a 12-year-old girl, Crown, who was sent home from school for wearing her hair in an afro style. The incident highlighted the systemic discrimination faced by people with natural hair, particularly African Americans, who often face discrimination in various aspects of life, including education, employment, and social settings.
As of today, several states have passed their own versions of the Crown Act, reflecting the growing awareness and concern about the issue of hair discrimination. Here’s a breakdown of the states that have adopted the legislation:
1. California: As the birthplace of the Crown Act, California was the first state to pass the legislation in 2019.
2. New York: Following California’s lead, New York passed the Crown Act in 2020, ensuring that natural hair styles are protected under the state’s anti-discrimination laws.
3. New Jersey: New Jersey became the third state to pass the Crown Act in 2020, aiming to combat hair discrimination in schools and workplaces.
4. Virginia: In 2021, Virginia joined the ranks of states with the Crown Act, making it illegal to discriminate against individuals based on their natural hair.
5. Maryland: Maryland followed suit in 2021, enacting the legislation to protect natural hair styles and promote inclusivity.
6. Illinois: Illinois passed the Crown Act in 2021, joining other states in the fight against hair discrimination.
While the number of states with the Crown Act is growing, there is still much work to be done. Advocates argue that the federal government should pass a comprehensive version of the legislation to ensure that all Americans are protected from hair discrimination. The passage of the Crown Act in various states has not only brought attention to the issue but has also inspired individuals and organizations to take action against hair discrimination.
The Crown Act serves as a powerful reminder that discrimination based on appearance is still prevalent in society. By passing the legislation, states are taking a stand against this injustice and working towards a more inclusive and accepting future. As more states join the movement, the hope is that the federal government will follow suit and implement a nationwide ban on hair discrimination. Only then can we truly say that the number of states with the Crown Act is not just a number, but a symbol of progress and change.
