# How Does the CROWN Act Address the Legacy of Hair Discrimination? ❉ Question

**Published:** 2025-06-14
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Question

---

_
![The image thoughtfully portrays the woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-monochrome-portrait-african-woman-short-textured-hair-artistic.jpg)

## Roots

To truly understand the profound impact of the CROWN Act, we must first allow our senses to settle into the sacred terrain of [textured hair heritage](/area/textured-hair-heritage/). This is not merely about statutes and legal definitions. This is an invitation to listen to the whisperings of ancestral wisdom, to trace the intricate patterns woven through millennia, to witness the vibrant stories carried in every coil and strand. For those whose lineage flows from the African continent, hair has always been a powerful symbol, a living archive of identity, spiritual connection, and social standing.

From the adorned heads of ancient Egyptian royalty to the symbolic styles of West African tribes, hair communicated a person’s age, marital status, tribal affiliation, and even spiritual beliefs. The very act of hair styling was, and remains, a communal ritual, a time for intergenerational bonding and the quiet transfer of cultural knowledge.

![Gathered in community, women meticulously braid, preserving ancestral heritage through the creation of protective hairstyles that honor textured hair traditions, enhanced by nourishing Jojoba and Shea butter hair products, a symbol of collective care and wellness.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/community-braiding-session-group-of-black-women-creating-protective-hairstyles.jpg)

## The Genesis of Textured Strands

To comprehend the CROWN Act’s reach, one must grasp the biological wonder that is [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/). Unlike straighter hair types, coiled and curled strands possess a unique elliptical cross-section, and their growth often spirals from the scalp, creating varied densities and patterns. This inherent physical structure provides both remarkable strength and a singular vulnerability, particularly to dryness and breakage, demanding specific methods of care. Historically, this distinct biology was not seen as a deficit but as a characteristic of profound beauty and spiritual connection within indigenous African societies.

The intricate coiling allowed for styles that served as elaborate visual languages, communicating a person’s role in the community or their spiritual devotion. For instance, the Maasai people of East Africa held firm beliefs connecting hair, especially the crown of the head, to spiritual energy and divine communication.

The understanding of hair’s anatomy in ancient times may not have employed modern scientific terms, yet the practices spoke to an intuitive, empirical knowledge of its needs. They utilized the gifts of the land ❉ shea butter, various oils, and herbal infusions ❉ to condition, protect, and adorn. This ancient wisdom, rooted in observation and communal practice, laid the groundwork for care regimens long before the advent of industrial beauty products. 

> The CROWN Act seeks to reclaim the sacred narrative of textured hair, moving beyond mere legal protection to a profound affirmation of ancestral identity and expression.

![Captured in monochrome, the child](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/portrait-of-a-child-with-beaded-braids-black-and-white-beauty.jpg)

## A Shifting Lexicon, a Constant Identity

The language used to describe textured hair has evolved, often reflecting the societal currents of its time. In ancient Africa, terms would have been deeply specific, signifying a multitude of styles and their associated meanings. With the transatlantic slave trade, a brutal campaign of dehumanization unfolded, beginning with the forced shaving of heads. This act severed a vital link to identity, culture, and spiritual heritage for millions. 

Post-slavery, and during eras of systemic oppression, a new, often damaging, lexicon emerged. Terms like “bad hair” became internalized, propagating a Eurocentric standard of beauty that deemed coily hair inferior. This deeply ingrained bias led many [Black women](/area/black-women/) to chemically straighten their hair to fit into societal norms, seeking perceived acceptance and opportunity. 

The CROWN Act, in its legislative text, explicitly defines “protective hairstyles” to include: 

- **Braids**, whether with or without extensions, styled with adornments or not

- **Locs**

- **Twists**

- **Bantu Knots**

- **Afros**
This careful enumeration is a powerful act of linguistic reclamation. It names and honors styles that are intrinsically linked to Black and mixed-race heritage , re-establishing their place as legitimate and professional expressions of self. It signals a departure from the historical imposition of terms that sought to diminish or devalue these hairstyles, asserting that the way one’s hair naturally grows, or is styled in cultural forms, holds inherent dignity. 

![This stark portrait reflects the confidence inherent in self-expression through culturally relevant hairstyles. The tapered cut and defined texture capture a contemporary spin on timeless Black hair narratives, blending heritage with individual style](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-woman-with-textured-hair-and-tapered-cut.jpg)

![The black and white tone adds a timeless quality to this scene of cultural exchange, inviting contemplation on the ancestral heritage embodied in textured hair, its ongoing evolution within modern beauty standards, and the commitment to its care and creative expression.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-image-of-textured-hair-stylist-creating-protective-hairstyles.jpg)

## Ritual

The journey of textured hair through history is a testament to resilience, a continuous unfolding of cultural practices that persisted despite oppressive forces. The [CROWN Act](/area/crown-act/) steps into this long-standing saga, acknowledging that styling hair for many Black and mixed-race individuals is far from a mere aesthetic choice. It represents a living ritual, a direct link to a profound heritage, and an act of self-preservation. From intricate cornrows that once mapped escape routes during enslavement to locs symbolizing spiritual devotion and cultural identity, these styles carry deep meaning. 

![The portrait of this Black woman radiates cultural pride, her textured hair styled in a braided crown beneath a striking headwrap, symbolizes her rich heritage. Her expression is one of quiet strength, reflective of holistic beauty, wellness, and the enduring legacy expressed through her hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-black-woman-with-braided-crown-wearing-headwrap-portrait-black-and-white.jpg)

## The Enduring Power of Protective Styles

Protective styles hold a singular position in the heritage of textured hair care. They shield delicate strands from environmental stressors, reduce manipulation, and help retain length, contributing to overall hair health. This practical aspect is inseparable from their cultural significance.

Ancestral communities perfected techniques like braiding and twisting, often over hours-long sessions that fostered communal bonds. These were not just methods of preserving hair; they were acts of shared wisdom, of storytelling, and of strengthening familial and social ties.

The CROWN Act addresses the historical denial of these styles in professional and educational settings. By extending protection to styles like **braids**, **locs**, **twists**, and **Afros**, it directly challenges the systemic bias that labeled them “unprofessional” or “messy.” This legal framework validates what Black and mixed-race communities have long known: these are not merely hairstyles; they are components of cultural expression, historical continuity, and individual well-being. 

![Intricate cornrows converge, unveiling the geometric precision of heritage hairstyles and the artistry of Black hair traditions. Each braided row symbolizes protective styling, while the interplay of light emphasizes the smooth scalp and ancestral connection, reflecting a holistic approach to hair care](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/detailed-black-and-white-cornrow-hairstyles-intricate-braided-textured-hair.jpg)

## A History of Policing Hair and the Rise of Legal Protection?

The policing of [Black hair](/area/black-hair/) in America has deep, unsettling roots. Beyond the brutal act of shaving enslaved Africans’ heads, laws were devised to suppress the visible markers of Black identity. One stark example is the **Tignon Laws** of 1786 in Spanish colonial Louisiana.

These laws mandated that Black and Creole women cover their hair with a scarf or “tignon” in public. The intent was to strip these women of their allure and social status, to visually mark them as subordinate and prevent them from appearing more adorned than white women.

However, these women, with their indomitable spirit, transformed the imposed headwraps into statements of defiance, adorning them with vibrant fabrics, jewels, and intricate ties. This act of resistance underscores the deeply rooted connection between hair and identity. 

Centuries later, this legacy of control manifested in workplace and school grooming policies that, while often appearing neutral, disproportionately penalized Black individuals for wearing natural or protective hairstyles. The case of **Chastity Jones** in 2010 exemplifies this. She had a job offer rescinded by Catastrophe Management Solutions because she refused to cut her locs, which the company deemed “messy” and not compliant with a “professional” image.

The EEOC sued on her behalf, but the court ruled against her, citing that locs were a “mutable” ❉ or changeable ❉ characteristic, therefore not protected under existing race discrimination laws. This ruling, and countless similar experiences, highlighted a gaping loophole in [civil rights](/area/civil-rights/) protections.

> The CROWN Act directly challenges the historical legacy of hair policing, moving society toward a recognition of textured hair’s intrinsic cultural worth.
The CROWN Act, first signed into law in California in 2019, explicitly seeks to close this loophole. It expands the definition of “race” to include “physical characteristics that are historically associated with race, including natural hair, hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles.” This legislative shift is not simply about allowing specific hairstyles. It is a legal acknowledgment of hair as an immutable racial characteristic, affirming that discrimination based on hair is, in fact, race discrimination. It aims to safeguard the ability to express one’s heritage through hair in schools, workplaces, and public spaces, marking a significant step in rectifying historical injustices. 

![This black and white image beautifully captures the essence of natural Afro hair, celebrating its texture and form through carefully crafted braids and a chic, modern aesthetic while reinforcing cultural pride, wellness, and the expressive artistry of Black hairstyles.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-black-and-white-portrait-of-woman-with-natural-afro-hair.jpg)

![The image captures the deliberate act of adjusting a silk turban, reflecting protective styling](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-adjusting-silk-turban-protective-style-for-natural-hair-care.jpg)

## Relay

The CROWN Act, in its unfolding across states, represents a critical relay in the long race for equity and cultural affirmation. This legislation carries forward the [ancestral wisdom](/area/ancestral-wisdom/) that hair is not separate from self, but rather a vital component of identity, lineage, and spirit. It offers a legal framework to protect practices that have sustained communities for generations, practices that often blend [holistic care](/area/holistic-care/) with deeply held cultural beliefs. The modern discourse around textured hair, fueled by the CROWN Act’s passage, is sparking a wider understanding of ancestral wellness philosophies and their application in contemporary life. 

![Spiral braided crown hairstyle, a striking black and white image highlighting the intricate design and texture on the person](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-image-of-crown-braid-hairstyle-on-textured-hair.jpg)

## How Does the CROWN Act Inform Holistic Care and Problem-Solving Rooted in Heritage?

Understanding [hair health](/area/hair-health/) from a holistic perspective means looking beyond chemical treatments and quick fixes. It calls for drawing upon the [ancestral practices](/area/ancestral-practices/) that prioritized natural ingredients and gentle handling, viewing hair as a living extension of the body and spirit. Many traditional African and diasporic [hair care](/area/hair-care/) practices were interwoven with spiritual beliefs, where hair was seen as a “conduit for spiritual interaction” and a source of personal power. The very act of caring for hair was a ritual, often performed by close family members, strengthening bonds and transmitting wisdom through touch and shared moments. 

The CROWN Act’s protections remove a significant external pressure that often led to hair damage. When individuals no longer face the threat of job loss or educational exclusion for wearing their [natural hair](/area/natural-hair/) or protective styles, they are freer to: 

- **Honor their natural texture** ❉ Without the compulsion to straighten, individuals can focus on nourishing their intrinsic hair pattern, understanding its unique needs, and selecting appropriate care.

- **Preserve protective styles** ❉ Styles like **locs**, **braids**, and **twists**, which are often time-consuming to create, can be worn for extended periods, reducing daily manipulation and promoting growth. These styles, historically used for practical protection, are now legally shielded expressions of heritage.

- **Embrace traditional ingredients** ❉ A renewed interest in ancestral ingredients like **shea butter**, **coconut oil**, and Chebe powder reflects a movement towards natural, gentle care methods that have been passed down for centuries.
This shift liberates individuals to create personalized hair regimens that truly prioritize holistic health and cultural resonance, rather than conformity. The Act facilitates a healing process, allowing individuals to reconnect with their hair as a symbol of pride and wellness, not a source of anxiety or oppression. 

![Hands meticulously harvest aloe](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/aloe-preparation-hands-squeezing-gel-into-bowl-natural-textured-hair-care.jpg)

## The Nighttime Sanctuary: Bonnet Wisdom and Beyond

The wisdom of nighttime hair care, particularly the use of silk or satin bonnets and scarves, is a practical and protective tradition that has deep roots in Black and mixed-race communities. This practice, often dismissed or misunderstood by those outside these cultural contexts, serves a crucial scientific purpose: preventing moisture loss, reducing friction against pillows (which causes breakage), and preserving intricate hairstyles. 

From a heritage perspective, the bonnet is more than a sleep accessory; it is a quiet act of self-care, a legacy of women finding ingenious ways to protect their crowns even when sleep calls. It speaks to a deep, practical understanding of textured hair’s vulnerability and the necessity of its preservation. The CROWN Act, by legitimizing the hairstyles themselves, indirectly supports the entire ecosystem of care surrounding them, including these quiet, yet essential, nighttime rituals. It implicitly validates the collective knowledge that has nurtured textured hair for centuries. 

> The CROWN Act’s scope extends beyond explicit hairstyles, indirectly validating the quiet, enduring wisdom of daily and nightly care rituals that protect textured hair heritage.

![This captivating portrait celebrates the artistry of braided hairstyles as expressions of cultural identity and personal strength. The halo braid symbolizes beauty, resilience, and timeless elegance, reflecting the traditions passed down through generations](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-braided-hairstyle-radiating-natural-beauty-and-cultural-identity-in.jpg)

## The Interplay of Science and Ancestral Wisdom: A Compendium

Modern hair science, in many instances, offers validation for practices long held as sacred within ancestral traditions. The CROWN Act creates a space where this synergy can be openly discussed and valued. 

For example, the widespread use of natural oils in African hair care, such as **shea butter** or **argan oil**, for centuries highlights an intuitive grasp of moisture retention and scalp health. Contemporary scientific understanding confirms the occlusive properties of these oils, their ability to seal in hydration, and their fatty acid profiles which benefit the scalp microbiome. Similarly, the ancient practice of protective styling, lauded for its ability to reduce breakage and promote length, aligns with scientific principles of minimizing mechanical stress on hair strands. 

The Act does not delve into the biology of hair or the chemistry of traditional ingredients, but its existence creates an environment where this knowledge can be freely shared and applied without fear of reprisal. It supports the notion that traditional knowledge systems hold valuable insights, often anticipating modern scientific discovery. This legislative protection allows for the open celebration and continuation of these heritage-informed approaches to textured hair care, fostering health and well-being on multiple levels. 

![Captivating in monochromatic tones, the portrait celebrates natural hair artistry. The meticulous finger waves showcase a timeless aesthetic, highlighting the woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-woman-with-classic-finger-waves-hairstyle-and-ebony-skin.jpg)

## Addressing Contemporary Challenges with Heritage in Mind?

The challenge of [hair discrimination](/area/hair-discrimination/) remains real, despite the legislative victories of the CROWN Act. Studies continue to underscore its impact. A 2019 study by Dove found that Black women are **1.5 times more likely to be sent home from the workplace because of their hair**, and 80% reported feeling they needed to change their natural hair to conform to workplace expectations. A more recent 2023 CROWN Workplace Research Study indicated that Black women’s hair is **2.5 times more likely to be perceived as unprofessional**, and nearly two-thirds of Black women change their hair for job interviews, often straightening it. 

The CROWN Act provides a crucial legal shield, but societal biases and unconscious perceptions persist. Problem-solving in this realm involves: 

- **Education** ❉ Continuing to educate employers, educators, and the wider public on the historical and cultural significance of textured hair and the forms of discrimination it faces. This helps dismantle ingrained biases.

- **Advocacy** ❉ Pushing for federal CROWN Act legislation and advocating for its adoption in all states without it.

- **Community Support** ❉ Strengthening community networks that affirm textured hair and provide resources for care and styling that honor heritage.
The Act is a powerful step, but the relay race continues, requiring ongoing dedication to foster a society where every strand of hair, in all its ancestral glory, is celebrated and respected. 

![The monochrome portrait explores the beauty of diverse textured hair forms and features of melanin rich complexions. This exploration is a celebration of natural hairstyles that represent cultural heritage, self expression, and serves as a focal point for holistic well being and identity](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-black-and-white-portrait-of-woman-with-short-afro-hairstyle.jpg)

![This striking black and white image captures the essence of natural hair texture, enhanced by the bold undercut design and the subject](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-portrait-of-woman-with-textured-hair-and-undercut-design.jpg)

## Reflection

The journey of the CROWN Act, from its inception to its growing presence in state legislation, is a testament to the enduring spirit of textured hair heritage. This legislation reaches beyond mere legal decree; it delves into the soul of a strand, recognizing that for Black and mixed-race communities, hair has always been a profound expression of self, a living link to ancestral lines, and a resilient declaration of identity. 

From the ancient adornments that spoke volumes of status and spirit, through the silent acts of resistance woven into braids during times of bondage, to the audacious Afros of civil rights movements, textured hair has consistently carried the weight of history and the lightness of defiant beauty. The CROWN Act acknowledges this deep continuum, offering a legal balm to wounds inflicted over centuries, wounds that deemed natural forms of expression as unprofessional or unacceptable. 

This legislative stride does not simply permit hairstyles; it validates a way of being, a cultural legacy. It encourages a collective return to the intuitive, holistic care practices rooted in ancestral wisdom, practices that see hair health as an aspect of overall well-being. The Act beckons a future where every individual feels affirmed in their heritage, where the unique contours of their coils and waves are seen not as a deviation from a narrow norm, but as a vibrant celebration of human diversity. The work continues, certainly, yet this framework stands as a beacon, guiding us towards a world where hair, in its infinite expressions, is truly free. 

![This evocative portrait celebrates the beauty and artistry of textured hair, where complex braids become a visual language, expressing personal style and heritage while framing the woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-woman-with-intricate-braided-hairstyles-and-hoop.jpg)

![This evocative monochrome study honors ancestral braiding artistry, showcasing a woman adorned with a braided crown that beautifully celebrates her afro textured hair and cultural heritage, while demonstrating masterful hair manipulation techniques that have been passed down through generations, for expressive styling.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-woman-braided-crown-hairstyle-afro-textured-hair-heritage.jpg)

## References

- Byrd, Ayana, and Lori L. Tharps. <i>Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America_. St. Martin’s Griffin, 2014.

- Chastity Jones v. Catastrophe Management Solutions, Inc. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals, No. 14-13936. 2016.

- Dove CROWN Research Study. “The 2019 CROWN Research Study for Women.” JOY Collective, 2019.

- Gould, Virginia M. _Afro-Creole Women of New Orleans: Power, Beauty, and Race_. University of North Carolina Press, 2017.

- Locke, Kristin, and Kimberly A. Williams. “The Natural Hair Bias in Job Recruitment.” Duke University and Michigan State University, 2020.

- Mitchell, Holly J. “The CROWN Act.” California Legislative Information, Senate Bill 188, 2019.

- Okoro, Kelechi. “The Spiritual Significance of African Hair.” Umthi Beauty, 2022.

- Patton, Tracey Owens. _African-American Hair: A Cultural History_. Texas Tech University Press, 2006.

- Robinson, Ashley. “Hair Discrimination and the CROWN Act: The Intersection of Race and Identity.” American University Washington College of Law, 2021.

- Walker, Alice. _In Search of Our Mothers’ Gardens: Womanist Prose_. Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1983.

## Glossary

### [CROWN Act Education](https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-education/)

Meaning ❉ CROWN Act Education gently presents the legal protections safeguarding natural hair textures, particularly those with afro-textured and coily patterns, across professional and academic environments.

### [Tignon Laws](https://roothea.co/area/tignon-laws/)

Meaning ❉ The Tignon Laws, enacted in late 18th-century colonial Louisiana, were decrees requiring free and enslaved Black women to cover their hair with a tignon or headscarf when in public spaces.

### [CROWN Act Military](https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-military/)

Meaning ❉ The CROWN Act Military addresses hair discrimination within the United States armed forces, ensuring service members can wear their natural hair textures and protective styles, such as locs, braids, and twists, without facing adverse consequences.

### [Crown Act Impact](https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-impact/)

Meaning ❉ The Crown Act Impact represents a significant shift in understanding and honoring the intrinsic beauty of textured hair within professional and academic environments.

### [Hair Care](https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Care, when understood through the lens of textured hair, signifies a mindful discipline for preserving the vigor of coily, kinky, and wavy strands.

### [Civil Rights](https://roothea.co/area/civil-rights/)

Meaning ❉ Civil Rights, within the gentle landscape of textured hair understanding, points to the fundamental freedom and equal access allowing individuals with Black and mixed-race hair to define, care for, and present their unique hair identity without prejudice.

### [CROWN Act Advocacy](https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-advocacy/)

Meaning ❉ CROWN Act Advocacy gently guides society toward understanding and respecting the inherent beauty of all hair textures, particularly those deeply rooted in Black and mixed-race heritage.

### [Crown Significance](https://roothea.co/area/crown-significance/)

Meaning ❉ Crown Significance refers to the distinct importance of the apex region of the scalp, particularly for individuals with textured, Black, and mixed-race hair.

### [Hair Health](https://roothea.co/area/hair-health/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Health, for textured strands, denotes a state of optimal scalp vitality and fiber integrity, where each coil and kink displays balanced hydration and intrinsic resilience.

### [Crown Act Louisiana](https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-louisiana/)

Meaning ❉ The Crown Act in Louisiana stands as a gentle affirmation of hair identity, specifically protecting individuals from discrimination based on their natural hair textures and styles, including braids, locs, twists, and Bantu knots.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [How Does CROWN Act Honor Hair Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-crown-act-honor-hair-heritage/)
![This evocative monochrome study honors ancestral braiding artistry, showcasing a woman adorned with a braided crown that beautifully celebrates her afro textured hair and cultural heritage, while demonstrating masterful hair manipulation techniques that have been passed down through generations, for expressive styling.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-woman-braided-crown-hairstyle-afro-textured-hair-heritage.jpg)

### [How Does the Legacy of Botanicals Connect to Identity for Textured Hair Communities?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-the-legacy-of-botanicals-connect-to-identity-for-textured-hair-communities/)
![United by shared tradition, women collectively grind spices using time-honored tools, linking their heritage and labor to ancestral methods of preparing remedies, foods and enriching hair care preparations. This visual narrative evokes generational wellness, holistic care, and hair health practices rooted in community and ancestral knowledge.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/women-united-in-traditional-african-spice-grinding-ritual-black-and-white.jpg)

### [In What Ways Does the CROWN Act Challenge Discriminatory Hair Perceptions?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-does-the-crown-act-challenge-discriminatory-hair-perceptions/)
![This dramatic portrait celebrates Black hair traditions through its majestic braided crown, a testament to ancestral heritage and expressive styling. The interplay of light and shadow accentuates the texture and artistry of the braids, honoring the woman’s strength and the enduring legacy of Black beauty.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-black-and-white-portrait-of-woman-with-elaborate-braided-hairstyle.jpg)

### [How Did Scalp Care Become an Act of Resistance in Black Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-scalp-care-become-an-act-of-resistance-in-black-heritage/)
![The image celebrates the intimate act of nurturing textured hair, using rich ingredients on densely coiled strands, reflecting a commitment to holistic wellness and Black hair traditions. This ritual links generations through ancestral knowledge and the practice of self-love embodied in natural hair care.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/applying-hair-cream-to-coiled-hair-a-black-and-white-portrait.jpg)

### [How Does the Cultural Legacy of Protective Styling Influence Modern Textured Hair Moisture Practices?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-the-cultural-legacy-of-protective-styling-influence-modern-textured-hair-moisture-practices/)
![Preparing natural remedies with ancient tools connects this woman to her ancestral heritage, illustrating the preservation of traditions in textured hair care. The image, highlighting light and shadow, tells a story of resilience, wellness, and timeless beauty practices.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-prepares-traditional-remedy-outdoors-using-stone-mortar-and-pestle.jpg)

### [In What Ways Does the CROWN Act Support Ancestral Hair Traditions?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-does-the-crown-act-support-ancestral-hair-traditions/)
![The dramatic interplay of light and shadow in this monochrome portrait enhances the structural beauty of the braided crown hairstyle, paying homage to the timeless artistry within Black hair traditions and the enduring expression of identity and holistic hair care.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-black-woman-with-braided-crown-hairstyle-elegance.jpg)

### [What Historical Struggles Informed the CROWN Act's Protection of Hair Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-struggles-informed-the-crown-acts-protection-of-hair-heritage/)
![The image](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-black-and-white-portrait-woman-adorned-with-braids-and-jewelry.jpg)

### [How Did Textured Hair Care Become an Act of Resistance during Slavery?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-textured-hair-care-become-an-act-of-resistance-during-slavery/)
![Sunlight catches the halo of textured hair as a mother gently tends to her mixed-race child’s hair this nurturing act honors ancestral heritage and a commitment to the specialized care routines vital for strong, healthy, type 3C/4A curl formation, reflecting deep cultural and familial connection.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/mother-combing-natural-textured-hair-of-mixed-race-child-outdoors-sunlight.jpg)

### [Can Workplace Hair Policies Still Cause Discrimination after the CROWN Act?](https://roothea.co/question/can-workplace-hair-policies-still-cause-discrimination-after-the-crown-act/)
![This black and white portrait illustrates the ancestral practice of textured hair care, a mother nurturing her child](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/mother-combing-childs-textured-hair-at-window-black-and-white-portrait.jpg)

---

## Raw Schema Data

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "BreadcrumbList",
    "itemListElement": [
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 1,
            "name": "Home",
            "item": "https://roothea.co/"
        },
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 2,
            "name": "Question",
            "item": "https://roothea.co/question/"
        },
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 3,
            "name": "How Does the CROWN Act Address the Legacy of Hair Discrimination?",
            "item": "https://roothea.co/question/how-does-the-crown-act-address-the-legacy-of-hair-discrimination/"
        }
    ]
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "Article",
    "mainEntityOfPage": {
        "@type": "WebPage",
        "@id": "https://roothea.co/question/how-does-the-crown-act-address-the-legacy-of-hair-discrimination/"
    },
    "headline": "How Does the CROWN Act Address the Legacy of Hair Discrimination? ❉ Question",
    "description": "The CROWN Act legally safeguards the right to wear natural and protective hairstyles, rectifying a legacy of discrimination against textured hair heritage. ❉ Question",
    "url": "https://roothea.co/question/how-does-the-crown-act-address-the-legacy-of-hair-discrimination/",
    "author": {
        "@type": "Person",
        "name": "Roothea",
        "url": "https://roothea.co/author/roothea/"
    },
    "datePublished": "2025-06-14T14:35:35+08:00",
    "dateModified": "2025-06-14T14:35:36+08:00",
    "publisher": {
        "@type": "Organization",
        "name": "Roothea"
    },
    "articleSection": [
        "Question"
    ],
    "image": {
        "@type": "ImageObject",
        "url": "https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-monochrome-portrait-african-woman-short-textured-hair-artistic.jpg",
        "caption": "The image thoughtfully portrays the woman's distinct elegance and resilience through the interplay of sharp light and darkness across her features and short textured hair. Evoking themes of personal heritage and sophisticated adornment, this artistic rendering celebrates the inherent beauty and cultural significance of short, natural hairstyles."
    }
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "FAQPage",
    "mainEntity": [
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "A History of Policing Hair and the Rise of Legal Protection?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": " The policing of Black hair in America has deep, unsettling roots. Beyond the brutal act of shaving enslaved Africans' heads, laws were devised to suppress the visible markers of Black identity. One stark example is the Tignon Laws of 1786 in Spanish colonial Louisiana. These laws mandated that Black and Creole women cover their hair with a scarf or \"tignon\" in public. The intent was to strip these women of their allure and social status, to visually mark them as subordinate and prevent them from appearing more adorned than white women.\n"
            }
        },
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "How does the CROWN Act inform holistic care and problem-solving rooted in heritage?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": " Understanding hair health from a holistic perspective means looking beyond chemical treatments and quick fixes. It calls for drawing upon the ancestral practices that prioritized natural ingredients and gentle handling, viewing hair as a living extension of the body and spirit. Many traditional African and diasporic hair care practices were interwoven with spiritual beliefs, where hair was seen as a \"conduit for spiritual interaction\" and a source of personal power. The very act of caring for hair was a ritual, often performed by close family members, strengthening bonds and transmitting wisdom through touch and shared moments.\n"
            }
        },
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "Addressing Contemporary Challenges with Heritage in Mind?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": " The challenge of hair discrimination remains real, despite the legislative victories of the CROWN Act. Studies continue to underscore its impact. A 2019 study by Dove found that Black women are 1.5 times more likely to be sent home from the workplace because of their hair, and 80% reported feeling they needed to change their natural hair to conform to workplace expectations. A more recent 2023 CROWN Workplace Research Study indicated that Black women's hair is 2.5 times more likely to be perceived as unprofessional, and nearly two-thirds of Black women change their hair for job interviews, often straightening it.\n"
            }
        }
    ]
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "WebPage",
    "@id": "https://roothea.co/question/how-does-the-crown-act-address-the-legacy-of-hair-discrimination/",
    "mentions": [
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-heritage/",
            "name": "Textured Hair Heritage",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-heritage/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ \"Textured Hair Heritage\" denotes the deep-seated, historically transmitted understanding and practices specific to hair exhibiting coil, kink, and wave patterns, particularly within Black and mixed-race ancestries."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/",
            "name": "Textured Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Textured hair describes the natural hair structure characterized by its unique curl patterns, ranging from expansive waves to closely wound coils, a common trait across individuals of Black and mixed heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/black-women/",
            "name": "Black Women",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/black-women/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Black women, as central figures in textured hair understanding, gently guide the comprehension of coily and kinky strands."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act/",
            "name": "CROWN Act",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The CROWN Act establishes legal protections against discrimination based on hair texture and styles frequently worn by individuals of Black or mixed heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair/",
            "name": "Black Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Black Hair describes the spectrum of hair textures primarily found within communities of African heritage, recognized by its distinct curl patterns ❉ from expansive waves to tightly coiled formations ❉ and an often elliptical follicle shape, which fundamentally shapes its unique growth trajectory."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/civil-rights/",
            "name": "Civil Rights",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/civil-rights/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Civil Rights, within the gentle landscape of textured hair understanding, points to the fundamental freedom and equal access allowing individuals with Black and mixed-race hair to define, care for, and present their unique hair identity without prejudice."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-wisdom/",
            "name": "Ancestral Wisdom",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-wisdom/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Ancestral Wisdom, for textured hair, represents the enduring knowledge and discerning observations gently passed through generations concerning the unique character of Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/holistic-care/",
            "name": "Holistic Care",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/holistic-care/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Holistic Care for textured hair offers a gentle perspective, viewing one's unique crown not in isolated segments, but as a responsive system connected to individual wellness and heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-practices/",
            "name": "Ancestral Practices",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-practices/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Ancestral Practices, within the context of textured hair understanding, describe the enduring wisdom and gentle techniques passed down through generations, forming a foundational knowledge for nurturing Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-health/",
            "name": "Hair Health",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-health/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Health, for textured strands, denotes a state of optimal scalp vitality and fiber integrity, where each coil and kink displays balanced hydration and intrinsic resilience."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/",
            "name": "Hair Care",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Care, when understood through the lens of textured hair, signifies a mindful discipline for preserving the vigor of coily, kinky, and wavy strands."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-hair/",
            "name": "Natural Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Natural Hair describes hair that maintains its original structural configuration, untouched by chemical processes like relaxers, texturizers, or permanent color that alter its natural coil, curl, or wave definition."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-discrimination/",
            "name": "Hair Discrimination",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-discrimination/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Discrimination, a subtle yet impactful bias, refers to the differential and often unfavorable treatment of individuals based on the natural characteristics or chosen styles of their hair, especially those textures and forms historically worn by Black and mixed-race persons."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-education/",
            "name": "CROWN Act Education",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-education/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ CROWN Act Education gently presents the legal protections safeguarding natural hair textures, particularly those with afro-textured and coily patterns, across professional and academic environments."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/tignon-laws/",
            "name": "Tignon Laws",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/tignon-laws/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The Tignon Laws, enacted in late 18th-century colonial Louisiana, were decrees requiring free and enslaved Black women to cover their hair with a tignon or headscarf when in public spaces."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-military/",
            "name": "CROWN Act Military",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-military/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The CROWN Act Military addresses hair discrimination within the United States armed forces, ensuring service members can wear their natural hair textures and protective styles, such as locs, braids, and twists, without facing adverse consequences."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-impact/",
            "name": "Crown Act Impact",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-impact/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The Crown Act Impact represents a significant shift in understanding and honoring the intrinsic beauty of textured hair within professional and academic environments."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-advocacy/",
            "name": "CROWN Act Advocacy",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-advocacy/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ CROWN Act Advocacy gently guides society toward understanding and respecting the inherent beauty of all hair textures, particularly those deeply rooted in Black and mixed-race heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-significance/",
            "name": "Crown Significance",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-significance/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Crown Significance refers to the distinct importance of the apex region of the scalp, particularly for individuals with textured, Black, and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-louisiana/",
            "name": "Crown Act Louisiana",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-louisiana/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The Crown Act in Louisiana stands as a gentle affirmation of hair identity, specifically protecting individuals from discrimination based on their natural hair textures and styles, including braids, locs, twists, and Bantu knots."
        }
    ]
}
```


---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/question/how-does-the-crown-act-address-the-legacy-of-hair-discrimination/
