Celebrating Black Hair Independence Day: The Impact of the CROWN Act

This CROWN Day, also known as Black Hair Independence Day, marks a significant milestone in the fight against hair discrimination. Since the CROWN Act was first signed into law in California five years ago, more than half of the country has adopted policies to prohibit racial discrimination based on hair texture and protective hairstyles in the workplace and public schools.

States like California, New York, New Jersey, Virginia, and Colorado have all enacted their own versions of the CROWN Act, with New Hampshire set to join the list soon. These policies have not only prevented discrimination but have also improved the lives of over 30 million Black Americans.

Oscar-winning filmmaker Matthew Cherry, a spokesperson for the CROWN Coalition, expressed his pride in being involved in such a transformative initiative. He highlighted the generational change that the CROWN Act is bringing and the impact it has on cultural safety for Black people in workspaces and schools.

Despite the progress made, makeup artist and Dove Self-Esteem Educator Dre Brown emphasized that the mission is far from complete. She called for continued activation in states without legal protections and the promotion of creative spaces that celebrate Black hair culture.

As we celebrate Black Hair Independence Day, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to ensure freedom of self-expression for all. Cherry emphasized the importance of feeling truly free in one’s self-expression, stating that everyone should have the freedom to wear their hair however they want.

As we honor the contributions of Black communities to the world of self-expression through hair, let us continue to support and advocate for the protection of natural and protective hairstyles for all.