# How Does the CROWN Act Define Hair Discrimination? ❉ Question

**Published:** 2025-06-13
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Question

---

![Hands gently massage a scalp treatment into tightly coiled hair, amidst onlookers, symbolizing a deep connection to heritage and holistic self-care. The black and white aesthetic underscores the timelessness of these ancestral practices, reflecting the enduring beauty standards and communal bonds associated with textured hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-image-of-young-woman-receiving-scalp-treatment-outdoors.jpg)

![Intense monochromatic portraiture celebrates natural coiled hair, highlighting the texture and shape under stark lighting. This artistry signifies deeper narratives of identity affirmation, self-acceptance, and the beauty found within authentic expressions of ancestral heritage, specifically related to Black hair traditions](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-woman-with-intricate-coiled-natural-hair-texture.jpg)

## Roots

Consider the stories etched into every coil, every twist, every strand of textured hair. These are not merely fibers emerging from the scalp; they are living chronicles, carrying the whispers of ancestors, the resilience of generations, and the vibrant artistry of cultural expression. For individuals of African descent, hair is a profound connection to lineage, a visible declaration of identity.

To understand how the [CROWN Act](/area/crown-act/) defines hair discrimination, one must first recognize the deep spiritual and historical resonance hair holds within these communities. The Act acknowledges that bias against [natural hair](/area/natural-hair/) is not a superficial matter of appearance; it is a direct assault on this profound heritage, a legal recognition of a historical struggle for self-acceptance and dignity.

![The portrait celebrates natural coiled hair texture as a symbol of ancestral pride and self-expression. The woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-woman-displaying-natural-black-coiled-hair-texture.jpg)

## Hair Anatomy and Ancestral Understandings

The unique biology of textured hair, with its elliptical follicle shape and varied curl patterns, has been a source of both wonder and scrutiny. Historically, African communities possessed an intricate understanding of these properties, not through microscopes, but through generations of careful observation and practice. They recognized the inherent strength and versatility of hair that coiled and spiraled, capable of being molded into elaborate statements of status, tribal affiliation, and spiritual connection. For instance, the intricate braiding patterns seen in West African societies, some dating back thousands of years, were not just artistic; they often mirrored social hierarchies or even conveyed coded messages. 

> The CROWN Act stands as a legal affirmation of what ancestral wisdom has always known: textured hair is a testament to identity and resilience.
This understanding contrasts sharply with later colonial perspectives that dehumanized Black hair, classifying it as closer to animal fur or wool rather than human hair. This was part of a broader system of dehumanization that sought to sever connections to African identity and tradition, impacting how [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) was perceived and treated for centuries. The CROWN Act directly counters this legacy by recognizing that hair texture, such as tightly coiled or tightly curled hair, is an inherent trait associated with race, and therefore, discrimination based on it constitutes racial discrimination. 

![The portrait encapsulates the dance between light and shadow, celebrating the unique texture of braided hair. It evokes a sense of ancestral connection, holistic hair care rituals passed down through generations, and the powerful expression of cultural identity inherent in traditional Black hair styling](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-silhouette-against-sunlight-showcasing-braided-textured-hair-in.jpg)

## Hair Classifications and Their Cultural Echoes

Modern hair classification systems, like the Andre Walker system that categorizes hair from straight (Type 1) to coily (Type 4), offer a scientific framework. Yet, a crucial question arises: **How do historical biases persist in hair classifications?** These systems, while seemingly objective, can inadvertently reinforce Eurocentric beauty standards if not approached with cultural awareness. The journey of textured hair through history, particularly in the diaspora, often involved a struggle against the imposed notion that straight hair was “good hair” and natural textures were “bad hair.” This dichotomy directly contributed to discriminatory practices in employment and education. 

Traditional [African societies](/area/african-societies/) did not categorize hair in such a reductive manner; their understanding centered on how hair could be styled to convey social messages, personal history, and class status. The significance was in its capacity for expression and its deep connection to the individual’s lineage and community. The CROWN Act seeks to dismantle the legal implications of these historical biases by explicitly protecting “protective hairstyles” and “hair texture” as racial characteristics. This means that policies demanding hair conform to a narrow, often Eurocentric, standard of “neatness” or “professionalism” are now viewed through the lens of racial discrimination, acknowledging their disproportionate impact on Black individuals. 

The Act’s legislative language ensures that expressions of racial identity through hair, such as braids, locs, twists, and Afros, are safeguarded from punishment or exclusion. This move helps to reclaim the narrative around textured hair, shifting from a history of imposed conformity to a future of celebrated authenticity. The recognition of hair as a protected racial characteristic is a profound step toward ensuring dignity and respect for cultural expression. 

![The botanical abstract offers a visual poem celebrating ancestral connections, hair texture, and the rich heritage woven into the care of textured hair. These floral structures mirror the strength and beauty inherent in wellness and traditions, expressing both history and resilience](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/abstract-floral-forms-a-study-in-light-texture-and-ancestral-heritage.jpg)

![Botanical textures evoke the organic foundations of holistic hair care, mirroring Black hair traditions and mixed-race hair narratives. This leaf arrangement, reminiscent of ancestral heritage, connects natural ingredients with expressive styling for texture, promoting wellness and celebrating the artistry of textured hair formations](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/artistic-black-and-white-leaves-arrangement-represents-natural-textured-hair.jpg)

## Ritual

Hair rituals, spanning continents and centuries, speak to a profound connection between self, community, and the rhythms of ancestral life. These practices, often communal and deeply personal, shaped identity and communicated social standing. The CROWN Act, in its legal framework, offers a shield to these enduring rituals, ensuring that the legacy of textured hair styling is not relegated to private spaces but can flourish openly without fear of reprisal. 

![This monochrome portrait captures a woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-woman-undercut-hairstyle-curly-texture-expressive-gaze.jpg)

## Protective Styling and Ancestral Roots

[Protective styles](/area/protective-styles/) are not merely trends; they are echoes of ancient practices, passed down through generations. These styles, such as **braids**, **locs**, **twists**, and **Bantu knots**, have been central to African societies for millennia, serving functional roles, conveying messages, and acting as art forms. For instance, in ancient Africa, hairstyles could indicate marital status, age, wealth, or tribal affiliation. During the transatlantic slave trade, these styles became tools of survival and resistance; enslaved African women, particularly rice farmers, braided rice seeds into their hair as a means to sustain themselves and their culture, or even created maps to guide escapes from plantations. 

The CROWN Act directly addresses these historically significant hairstyles by prohibiting discrimination based on them. It defines [hair discrimination](/area/hair-discrimination/) to include the denial of opportunities due to [hair texture](/area/hair-texture/) or protective hairstyles, explicitly listing these styles. This [legal protection](/area/legal-protection/) stands against policies in workplaces and schools that historically deemed such natural and protective styles as “unprofessional” or “unacceptable,” thereby perpetuating racial bias. 

> Legal protections from the CROWN Act honor the resilience and cultural significance woven into every textured hair tradition.
Consider the Tignon Laws implemented in New Orleans during the late 18th century. Spanish colonial governor Esteban Rodríguez Miró, prompted by Charles III of Spain, required free Creole women of African descent to wear a tignon ❉ a scarf or handkerchief ❉ over their elaborate hairstyles adorned with feathers and jewels. This edict aimed to enforce a visible distinction, to subjugate these women by concealing their expressions of identity and status, essentially marking them as part of the slave class regardless of their actual freedom. This historical example vividly illustrates the long lineage of policing [Black hair](/area/black-hair/) to enforce social hierarchies.

The CROWN Act, centuries later, directly counters such historical impositions by asserting the right to wear one’s hair in styles intrinsically linked to Black heritage without fear of institutional punishment. It effectively reclaims the public space for these expressions of identity, dismantling the legal remnants of colonial control.

![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)

## Traditional Tools and Modern Adaptations

The tools and techniques associated with [textured hair care](/area/textured-hair-care/) also carry a rich cultural heritage. From carefully carved wooden combs, often imbued with spiritual symbolism and signifying group identity before European colonization, to the hands that meticulously sculpt intricate styles, these elements are integral to the ritual of hair care. The evolution of [hair care](/area/hair-care/) has seen adaptations, but the core principles of protecting the hair’s integrity and celebrating its natural form persist.

The CROWN Act, by safeguarding the styles themselves, indirectly validates the tools and practices used to achieve them. It supports the right of individuals to maintain their hair according to their cultural practices, rather than conforming to an imposed standard that often necessitates chemical alteration or damaging heat.

The legislative efforts of the CROWN Act, first passed in California in 2019 and gaining momentum across states, represent a collective movement to end hair-based discrimination nationwide. It is a response to persistent biases where, for example, studies have shown that Black women’s hair is 2.5 times more likely to be perceived as “unprofessional,” leading many to change their natural hair for job interviews. The Act provides a vital legal tool to challenge such subjective and racially biased interpretations of grooming policies. 

![Illuminated by stark contrast, the portrait highlights the beauty of coiled texture. Her unwavering gaze, combined with the visual contrast, speaks to cultural narratives, empowerment and the celebration of ancestral black hair traditions while embracing mixed-race hair narratives and styles](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-black-and-white-portrait-revealing-strength-resilience-and-textured.jpg)

![This portrait celebrates the beauty of tightly coiled Afro texture, emphasizing ancestral heritage and self expression. The juxtaposition of shaved sides with the rounded crown highlights the dynamic possibilities within black hair traditions, embracing individuality through styling and haircare practices](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-black-and-white-portrait-woman-with-textured-afro-hairstyle.jpg)

## Relay

The journey of textured hair care stretches far beyond mere aesthetics; it embodies a holistic philosophy deeply rooted in ancestral wisdom. This philosophy intertwines physical care with spiritual wellness, community connection, and personal identity. The CROWN Act, through its legislative reach, steps into this sacred space, providing a contemporary shield for practices refined over generations, ensuring that this living heritage can continue to guide modern approaches to [hair health](/area/hair-health/) and cultural expression. 

![The monochromatic palette emphasizes the inherent texture of the woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-woman-with-afro-textured-hair-and-timeless-elegance.jpg)

## Crafting Personalized Regimens from Ancestral Wisdom

For generations, communities of African descent have passed down intricate care regimens, often drawing from the abundant natural resources of their lands. These practices were not random acts; they formed a comprehensive approach to hair health, recognizing the unique needs of textured hair. Ingredients like **shea butter**, **coconut oil**, **aloe vera**, and various plant extracts were central to conditioning, moisturizing, and protecting the hair. The use of specific herbs, such as those found in traditional Chebe powder from the Basara Tribe of T’Chad, speaks to a deep, empirical knowledge of botanical properties for length retention and overall hair vitality. 

This [ancestral wisdom](/area/ancestral-wisdom/) contrasts starkly with a more recent history where chemically altering textured hair became a perceived necessity for social acceptance. The CROWN Act offers a legal counterpoint to this historical pressure, affirming that natural hair texture and styles are acceptable in their inherent form. This legislative stance empowers individuals to build personalized hair regimens that truly honor their hair’s natural state and ancestral lineage, rather than conforming to external, Eurocentric standards of what is considered “professional” or “neat.” 

How does legal protection foster ancestral hair wisdom? By removing the fear of adverse consequences in employment or education due to natural hair, the CROWN Act creates space for individuals to prioritize the health and integrity of their textured hair through practices that align with their heritage. This includes embracing traditional methods of moisturizing, detangling, and styling that have been proven effective over centuries, often with natural ingredients. 

![This refined study in monochrome evokes classic Hollywood glamour, showcasing beautifully styled hair with cascading undulations and radiant shine. The contrasting light and shadow play accentuate the hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portrait-of-a-woman-with-sleek-waves-and-undulating-texture.jpg)

## Nighttime Sanctuary and Bonnet Wisdom

The ritual of nighttime hair protection holds significant weight within textured hair heritage. The simple act of wrapping hair in a silk or satin bonnet, or using a protective pillowcase, safeguards delicate strands from friction, preserves moisture, and maintains intricate styles. This practice, often seen as a contemporary necessity, has deeper roots.

Historically, headwraps served multiple purposes for Black women, including protection from harsh conditions, concealment from oppressive gazes, and acts of quiet defiance and dignity during slavery. These coverings became symbols of [cultural identity](/area/cultural-identity/) and resilience.

The CROWN Act’s spirit of protection extends to the freedom to maintain one’s hair in ways that honor its unique structure and cultural history. When the Act safeguards specific styles like braids or locs, it implicitly acknowledges the comprehensive care routines, including nighttime preservation, that contribute to their longevity and health. An environment where natural hair is legally protected encourages the continuation and evolution of these important protective rituals. 

![The repetitive arrangement of bamboo stalks, accentuated by light and shadow, creates a visually captivating texture, resonating with the interwoven narrative of heritage. These stalks mirror the strength found in traditional hair care philosophies, reflecting holistic approaches to textured hair health and expressiveness](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/abstract-bamboo-texture-demonstrating-natural-patterns-of-growth-and.jpg)

## Addressing Challenges with Heritage-Informed Solutions

The challenges faced by textured hair ❉ from dryness and breakage to the need for careful detangling ❉ have always been met with ingenuity and communal knowledge. Ancestral practices offer profound insights into maintaining healthy hair in diverse climates and conditions. For example, the use of rich butters and oils, consistent moisture application, and mindful detangling techniques have been cornerstones of textured hair care across generations. 

- **Shea Butter** ❉ A staple from West Africa, applied for deep moisture and protection.

- **Marula Oil** ❉ Used traditionally in Southern Africa for nourishment.

- **African Black Soap** ❉ A West African cleansing agent, known for its gentle properties.

- **Ghee (Clarified Butter)** ❉ Used in Ethiopian communities for hair conditioning.
The legal landscape, however, adds another layer of complexity. Hair discrimination can result in significant psychological and economic burdens. Research shows [Black women](/area/black-women/) are 50% more likely to be sent home from work because of their hair, and 80% more likely to feel they need to change their natural hair to conform to workplace norms. This systemic bias creates a challenge far beyond hair health.

The CROWN Act aims to dismantle these discriminatory barriers by explicitly stating that hair texture and protective styles cannot be grounds for denying employment or educational opportunities. This legal clarity provides a powerful tool for individuals to assert their right to wear their hair naturally, reducing the pressure to conform and allowing them to prioritize practices that truly serve their hair’s inherent needs and cultural significance. The Act thus offers a vital bridge between ancestral practices of care and the contemporary pursuit of equity.

![This evocative image captures a modern woman with heritage texture, celebrated in a contemporary context, reflecting strength and sophistication. Her polished hair is a tribute to both expressive styling and mindful holistic hair care, symbolizing the essence of beauty through texture and intentionality, a blend of heritage and personal narrative](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-woman-with-elegant-textured-hair-and-intense-gaze.jpg)

![The monochrome portrait highlights textured hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-woman-adorned-with-intricate-braided-hairstyle-and.jpg)

## Reflection

The journey through the intricate world of textured hair, from its elemental biological foundations to its profound cultural expressions and the legal protections now afforded by the CROWN Act, reveals a story of enduring resilience. Every coil and wave, every braid and loc, carries not just the memory of ancestral hands, but the vibrant spirit of communities that have long understood hair as a sacred extension of self. The CROWN Act does not merely legislate against a specific form of prejudice; it acknowledges and validates a legacy, a deep well of heritage that has too often been misunderstood or maligned. 

This legislative step serves as a beacon, guiding us toward a future where the authentic expression of textured hair is celebrated as a fundamental right, free from the lingering shadows of colonial-era biases. It invites a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity of past practices and encourages the continuity of traditions that link us to our origins. The Act reinforces the idea that true professionalism and beauty reside not in conformity to narrow standards, but in the freedom to embody one’s complete self, heritage and all. Our exploration of the CROWN Act, grounded in the ‘Soul of a Strand’ ethos, has shown that this law is a vital addition to the living, breathing archive of textured hair ❉ a testament to its past, a guardian of its present, and a promise for its unbound future. 

![The act of braiding transforms into a resonant moment, weaving together ancestral knowledge, intergenerational bonds, and the meticulous artistry of textured haircare. This tender exchange underscores the beauty of Black hair traditions, affirming cultural pride and holistic wellness through intimate connection](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/mother-braiding-daughters-coiled-hair-sunlight-textured-haircare-bonding.jpg)

![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)

## References

- Byrd, Ayana D. and Tharps, Lori L. (2001). Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America. St. Martin’s Griffin.

- Dabiri, Emma. (2020). Twisted: The Tangled History of Black Hair Culture. Harper Perennial.

- Johnson, T. and Bankhead, T. (2014). Hair It Is: Examining the Experiences of Black Women with Natural Hair. Open Journal of Social Sciences, 2(10), 86-100.

- Patton, T. O. (2006). Hey girl, am I more than my hair?: African American women and their struggles with beauty, body image, and hair. NWSA Journal, 18(2), 24-51.

- Rosado, Sybil Dione. (2006). No Nubian Knots or Nappy Locks: Discussing the Politics of Hair Among Women of African Decent in the Diaspora. A Report on Research in Progress.

- Rooks, Noliwe M. (1996). Hair Raising: Beauty, Culture, and African American Women. Rutgers University Press.

- Weitz, Rose. (2000). Rapunzel’s Daughters: What Women’s Hair Tells Us About Women’s Lives. Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

## Glossary

### [Crown Identity](https://roothea.co/area/crown-identity/)

Meaning ❉ Crown Identity denotes a discerning awareness of one's unique textured hair, a gentle attunement to its specific characteristics and heritage.

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

Meaning ❉ Textured Hair Care refers to the considered practice of attending to the unique structure of coily, kinky, and wavy hair, particularly for those with Black and mixed-race heritage.

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

Meaning ❉ A CROWN Act Precedent marks a pivotal legal determination that shapes the understanding of hair discrimination, particularly for individuals with textured hair.

### [Textured Hair](https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/)

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.

### [C.R.O.W.N. Act](https://roothea.co/area/c-r-o-w-n-act/)

Meaning ❉ The C.R.O.W.N.

### [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.

### [Ancestral Wisdom](https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-wisdom/)

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.

### [Natural Hair](https://roothea.co/area/natural-hair/)

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.

### [Textured Hair Crown](https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-crown/)

Meaning ❉ The 'Textured Hair Crown' identifies the highest point of the scalp, an area where textured hair frequently expresses its most unique growth direction and density.

### [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.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [How Did Ancient Cultural Practices Define Hair's Identity and Care?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-ancient-cultural-practices-define-hairs-identity-and-care/)
![This evocative portrait captures the essence of natural Black hair traditions through its textured coils, expressive styling, and confident gaze. It honors cultural heritage and celebrates modern beauty with its interplay of shadows, fostering dialogue on textured hair forms and identity.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-woman-with-natural-coiled-hair-and-confident-gaze-black-and-white.jpg)

### [What Ancestral Ingredients Define Textured Hair Solutions?](https://roothea.co/question/what-ancestral-ingredients-define-textured-hair-solutions/)
![This timeless portrait celebrates natural coiled hair, emphasizing its unique spring-like texture and form. The composition invites viewers to contemplate the artistry and cultural significance inherent in embracing and showcasing authentic Black hair traditions with elegance.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-portrait-of-woman-with-natural-coiled-hair-and-timeless-style.jpg)

### [Which Traditional African Ingredients Define Modern Textured Hair Care?](https://roothea.co/question/which-traditional-african-ingredients-define-modern-textured-hair-care/)
![This black and white study captures the intricate details of shea nuts, revered in African ancestral traditions, emphasizing their potential to hydrate and rejuvenate textured hair, celebrating the beauty and resilience of coil formations while drawing on holistic ingredients from nature’s pharmacy.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-study-of-shea-nut-seeds-for-textured-hair-elixir.jpg)

### [How Does the CROWN Act Address Historical Hair Biases?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-the-crown-act-address-historical-hair-biases/)
![The monochrome portrait captures a timeless beauty, celebrating the diverse textures within Black hair traditions light plays across the model](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-monochrome-portrait-of-a-black-woman-with-natural-hair-texture.jpg)

### [How Does the CROWN Act Honor the Historical Significance of Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-the-crown-act-honor-the-historical-significance-of-textured-hair/)
![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](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-black-woman-with-braided-crown-wearing-headwrap-portrait-black-and-white.jpg)

### [How Does the CROWN Act Relate to the Historical Struggle for Textured Hair Acceptance?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-the-crown-act-relate-to-the-historical-struggle-for-textured-hair-acceptance/)
![This monochromatic image exudes serene strength and grace, highlighting the beauty of natural coiled hair. The woman](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-monochromatic-portrait-of-a-young-woman-with-natural-coiled-hair.jpg)

### [What Styles Does the CROWN Act Protect?](https://roothea.co/question/what-styles-does-the-crown-act-protect/)
![Embracing ancestral wisdom, the hands prepare a rice water rinse, a treasured holistic practice for enhancing textured hair](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hands-washing-rice-for-textured-hair-rinse-holistic-ancestral-practice.jpg)

### [How Did Early Black Beauty Entrepreneurs Define Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-early-black-beauty-entrepreneurs-define-textured-hair/)
![This striking monochrome portrait celebrates the beauty and versatility of textured hair, particularly the intricate styling of dreadlocks, set against the striking contrast of light and shadow, inviting a deeper appreciation for modern Black hair artistry and cultural pride.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-black-woman-with-styled-dreadlocks-and-mesh-top.jpg)

### [How Does Modern Hair Discrimination Connect with Historical Subjugation of Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-modern-hair-discrimination-connect-with-historical-subjugation-of-textured-hair/)
![This monochromatic image captures a poised young man, his tightly coiled hair a prominent statement of identity styled with precision. The play of light and shadow underscores the artistry of the haircut, reflecting modern Black hair culture and the intentionality of personal expression through textured forms.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portrait-of-young-man-with-tight-coiled-textured-hair-undercut.jpg)

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            "description": "Meaning ❉ \"African Societies,\" within the scope of understanding textured hair, systematizing its care, and applying knowledge, points to the gentle wisdom and communal practices that have long supported hair well-being across varied African cultures."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/protective-styles/",
            "name": "Protective Styles",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/protective-styles/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Protective Styles denote a thoughtful strategy in textured hair care, meticulously crafted to shield the hair's more vulnerable lengths from routine manipulation and environmental exposure."
        },
        {
            "@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/legal-protection/",
            "name": "Legal Protection",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/legal-protection/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Legal Protection, within the context of textured hair understanding, refers to the established frameworks that safeguard the cultural significance, historical practices, and personal autonomy surrounding Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-texture/",
            "name": "Hair Texture",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-texture/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Texture identifies the inherent physical configuration of individual hair strands, from gentle waves to tightly coiled patterns, a fundamental characteristic for those with Black and mixed heritage hair."
        },
        {
            "@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/textured-hair-care/",
            "name": "Textured Hair Care",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-care/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Textured Hair Care refers to the considered practice of attending to the unique structure of coily, kinky, and wavy hair, particularly for those with Black and mixed-race heritage."
        },
        {
            "@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/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/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/cultural-identity/",
            "name": "Cultural Identity",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-identity/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Cultural Identity, when considered through the lens of textured hair, represents a soft, abiding connection to the deep-seated wisdom of ancestral hair practices and the shared experiences of a community."
        },
        {
            "@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-identity/",
            "name": "Crown Identity",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-identity/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Crown Identity denotes a discerning awareness of one's unique textured hair, a gentle attunement to its specific characteristics and heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-precedent/",
            "name": "CROWN Act Precedent",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-precedent/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ A CROWN Act Precedent marks a pivotal legal determination that shapes the understanding of hair discrimination, particularly for individuals with textured hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/c-r-o-w-n-act/",
            "name": "C.R.O.W.N. Act",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/c-r-o-w-n-act/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The C.R.O.W.N."
        },
        {
            "@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/textured-hair-crown/",
            "name": "Textured Hair Crown",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-crown/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The 'Textured Hair Crown' identifies the highest point of the scalp, an area where textured hair frequently expresses its most unique growth direction and density."
        },
        {
            "@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."
        }
    ]
}
```


---

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