Black Women Push To End Hair Discrimination Through The CROWN Act

Timothy Hiatt/Getty Images for BET

I've always been one unashamed of 'rocking' my hair - relaxed or as it is now 'natural'. For those who aren't fully aware of what 'natural' hair is to a Black woman, let me explain.

'Natural ' hair is simply free of any chemical agents that 'straighten' the hair. Those "agents", we (women of color) sometimes refer to as relaxer or 'creamy crack.' That's because for so long we've been ADDICTED to having straight hair. Having straight hair and no kinks has long been promoted in the Black community as good.

Well, over time it appears there has been an awakening. Black women are embracing their "natural" hair. They are sporting it as an afro, locks, buzz cuts, bald and the list goes on. However, not everyone is embracing the 'natural hair' of a woman of color.

Did you know…currently, it is legal to discriminate against a person in the workplace or in schools because of their natural hairstyle in all states (except for California, New York, New Jersey, Virginia, Colorado, Washington, and Maryland). Hair discrimination is real.

Enter the CROWN Act that seeks to give hair freedom and stop the racial injustices by making hair discrimination illegal.

You can sign the petition to support the movement that is seeking some 200,000 signatures.

#TheCrownAct

#StopHairDiscrimination

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Janine “JD” Davis: JD The Diva is the spicy, bold, and highly energetic radio and TV personality you hear hosting the midday shift (10 am till 3 pm) each weekday at V 101.9. An award-winning 30-year radio and news journalist, Janine brings her unique style of delivering entertainment, news, and inspiration to the airwaves. From her quick-witted ‘dirt’ on celebrities to the live Facebook mix show featuring JD and her best dance moves to JD’s Inspirational Moments where she shares personal battles and triumphs, JD keeps listeners engaged and entertained. When she’s not on air, you can find JD getting involved in the community and embracing Black-owned businesses and stories online. She enjoys writing about small Black-owned businesses, our HBCUs as a grad herself, and all things supporting women.