How does the CROWN Act relate to the heritage of Black hair?

Roots

To truly grasp the profound resonance of the CROWN Act, one must first listen to the whispers carried on the wind through generations of textured hair. This is not a mere legal document; it is a profound acknowledgment of a living, breathing heritage, a story etched into every curl, coil, and strand. For those whose ancestry stretches back to the continent of Africa and its diasporic pathways, hair is far more than a physiological outgrowth.

It has served as a sacred chronicle, a visual language, a repository of identity, and a symbol of both resistance and resilience. The CROWN Act steps onto this ancestral ground, seeking to protect the freedom to embody this rich legacy without penalty in the modern world.

The understanding of textured hair begins at its very core, a microscopic marvel that sets it apart. Unlike straight hair, which typically grows in a round or oval shape from the scalp, textured hair often emerges from elliptical or flattened follicles, causing the hair shaft itself to curve and coil. This unique helical structure dictates its characteristics ❉ its inherent strength, its tendency towards dryness due to the difficulty of natural oils traveling down the spiral, and its magnificent volume. This biological blueprint, passed down through lineages, has always necessitated specific care practices and styling traditions, deeply rooted in ancestral knowledge.

The Sacred Architecture of Hair

The biological makeup of textured hair, often characterized by its elliptical cross-section and the way it spirals as it grows, gives rise to its distinct qualities. These qualities include its remarkable elasticity, its ability to retain styles, and its varying degrees of porosity. This structural uniqueness means that textured hair requires particular approaches to moisture retention and manipulation. Understanding this intrinsic architecture is the first step in appreciating the centuries of ancestral ingenuity applied to its care.

Across African societies, hair was a dynamic canvas, communicating complex social codes. Before the transatlantic slave trade, hairstyles denoted a person’s marital status, age, religious affiliation, ethnic identity, wealth, and rank within a community (Byrd & Tharps, 2001; Jacobs-Huey, 2006; Mercer, 1994; Patton, 2006; Rooks, 1996). The intricate braiding patterns of the Fulani, the elaborate coiffures of the Yoruba, or the meticulously styled locs of various West African groups were not merely aesthetic choices; they were declarations of self and community, living archives of history and belonging.

Textured hair is a living archive, each curl and coil a testament to ancestral ingenuity and a declaration of enduring identity.

The Ancestral Lexicon of Hair

The language surrounding textured hair is as diverse and rich as the hair itself. Terms like “kinky,” “coily,” “curly,” and “nappy” carry not only descriptive weight but also historical and cultural baggage, often weaponized during periods of oppression. The journey to reclaim and celebrate these terms, alongside traditional names for styles and practices, is central to affirming the heritage of Black hair. The CROWN Act acknowledges that the language used to denigrate these natural states is a tool of discrimination.

The very concept of “good hair” versus “bad hair,” a damaging colonial construct, sought to impose Eurocentric beauty standards onto Black bodies, devaluing natural textures. This insidious grading system aimed to disconnect individuals from their authentic selves and their ancestral practices. The CROWN Act directly confronts this legacy, asserting that all hair textures, particularly those historically associated with Black and mixed-race people, are inherently acceptable and professional.

• Kinky Hair ❉ Often refers to hair with very tight, small curls or coils, creating a dense, voluminous appearance.
• Coily Hair ❉ Describes hair with a spring-like curl pattern, forming distinct coils that can be fine or coarse.
• Locs ❉ Intertwined strands of hair that form rope-like segments, a style with ancient roots across many African cultures, symbolizing spirituality and commitment.
• Cornrows ❉ A traditional braiding technique where hair is braided very close to the scalp in rows, often forming intricate geometric patterns.

Ritual

Stepping from the foundational understanding of textured hair into the realm of its care is to enter a space of profound ritual, a dance between ancient wisdom and contemporary practice. Here, the CROWN Act reveals its immediate, tangible connection to lived experience. It addresses the historical policing of styles and care routines that have long been cornerstones of Black identity and self-expression.

The ways textured hair is tended, adorned, and shaped are not mere fleeting trends; they are echoes of ancestral hands, expressions of communal belonging, and affirmations of individual spirit. This section honors the artistry and science woven into every styling choice.

Protective Styling Through Time

For centuries, protective styles have served as a shield, preserving the health of textured hair while simultaneously acting as powerful statements of cultural affiliation. Braids, twists, and locs, far from being simply fashionable, carry a lineage that stretches back to ancient African civilizations. These styles protected hair from environmental elements, minimized manipulation, and promoted length retention. Beyond their practical benefits, they were imbued with social, spiritual, and artistic significance.

The practice of creating these styles often involved communal gatherings, fostering bonds and passing down techniques from elder to youth. The CROWN Act, by safeguarding the right to wear these styles, directly protects this living heritage from the prejudice that has sought to erase it.

Protective styles are not just aesthetic choices; they are historical declarations, safeguarding hair and heritage against the elements and societal pressures.

Consider the historical context ❉ in the 1700s, Louisiana’s infamous Tignon Laws mandated that free Black women conceal their hair with headscarves, a deliberate act to suppress their elaborate hairstyles which were seen as a threat to the racial hierarchy. Yet, these women, with remarkable resilience, transformed the tignon into an ornate accessory, turning a tool of oppression into a new form of cultural expression (LDF, n.d.). This historical example underscores the enduring connection between hair, freedom, and the assertion of identity, a connection the CROWN Act seeks to restore and protect.

The Artistry of Natural Hair

The methods used to define and celebrate natural texture are as varied as the curl patterns themselves. From wash-and-go techniques that allow the hair to air dry in its natural state, to finger coiling and shingling that sculpt individual curls, each approach is a testament to the versatility and beauty of textured hair. These methods often involve the application of natural butters and oils, echoing traditional African practices of nourishing the hair and scalp.

Historically, the pursuit of hair alteration to conform to Eurocentric standards, such as through the use of hot combs or chemical relaxers, was a response to societal pressures and discriminatory norms. While these practices became deeply embedded in the experiences of many Black people, the contemporary movement towards natural hair is a reclaiming of ancestral aesthetics and a rejection of imposed beauty ideals. The CROWN Act stands as a legal affirmation of this reclamation, ensuring that individuals are not penalized for choosing to honor their inherent hair structure.

The Toolkit of Heritage

The tools employed in textured hair care span centuries, from carved wooden combs designed to navigate dense coils (Johnson & Bankhead, 2014) to modern wide-tooth combs and specialized brushes. Each tool serves a purpose, facilitating detangling, styling, and product distribution. The emphasis remains on gentle handling, a wisdom passed down through generations, recognizing the unique structure of textured strands.

The history of Black hair is also marked by entrepreneurial spirit, with figures like Madam C.J. Walker developing products and tools tailored to the specific needs of Black hair, often in response to the limitations and harms of products not designed for textured hair. This legacy of innovation, driven by community needs and ancestral understanding, continues to shape the textured hair care landscape. The CROWN Act acknowledges that these distinct hair care needs and the styles they enable are integral to Black identity and should not be subject to discriminatory policies.

Relay

How does the CROWN Act, a contemporary legal instrument, reach back through the currents of time to reshape our very understanding of identity and belonging, particularly concerning the sacred legacy of Black hair? This inquiry invites us into the most profound chambers of connection, where ancestral wisdom meets modern legislation, creating a sanctuary for authenticity. It is here, in the interplay of past and present, that the true depth of the CROWN Act’s relationship to textured hair heritage becomes strikingly clear. The act is not merely about preventing discrimination; it is about recognizing the inherent dignity and historical weight carried within every strand of Black hair, allowing it to exist in its natural glory without societal penalty.

Weaving Wellness and Ancestry

The journey to healthy textured hair is a holistic endeavor, deeply rooted in ancestral wellness philosophies that recognized the interconnectedness of body, spirit, and community. Building a personalized regimen for textured hair often draws upon centuries of accumulated wisdom, combining the scientific understanding of moisture retention and protein balance with traditional practices of gentle handling and natural ingredient application. This approach acknowledges that hair care extends beyond superficial appearance, touching upon self-acceptance and a profound connection to one’s lineage.

The significance of hair in Black culture extends beyond mere aesthetics; it is often seen as a spiritual antenna, connecting individuals to ancestral realms and higher wisdom (Substack, 2025). When individuals engage in intentional hair care, they are, in essence, tuning their frequency, clearing energetic debris, and strengthening spiritual protection. This perspective highlights the profound spiritual and cultural meaning embedded in hair care practices that the CROWN Act now seeks to protect from external judgment and prejudice.

The CROWN Act stands as a legal affirmation of selfhood, protecting the ancestral right to wear one’s hair in its natural state without fear of penalty.

The Nighttime Sanctuary and Bonnet Wisdom

Among the most enduring and protective rituals in textured hair care is the nighttime sanctuary ❉ the practice of wrapping or covering hair before sleep. The humble bonnet, a seemingly simple garment, holds a rich and complex history, evolving from a tool of oppression during enslavement to a symbol of resistance and a cornerstone of hair preservation. Historically, headwraps and bonnets were worn in many African countries, signifying wealth, marital status, and family lineage (Byrdie, 2022).

During enslavement, these coverings were weaponized, used to visibly distinguish Black women as lesser (Byrdie, 2022). Yet, Black women transformed them into statements of cultural expression, choosing vibrant fabrics and adornments (Helix Hair Labs, 2023).

Today, the bonnet protects delicate textured strands from friction, retains moisture, and preserves styles, extending the life of braids, twists, and coils. Its contemporary use is a direct continuation of ancestral practices of protection and care, a silent rebellion against societal pressures that once demanded conformity. The CROWN Act, by safeguarding the right to wear one’s hair naturally, implicitly extends protection to the accessories and routines that allow natural hair to thrive, thereby honoring this deeply personal and historically significant practice.

Ingredients from the Earth, Wisdom from the Ages

The ancestral pharmacopeia for textured hair care is a testament to deep ecological knowledge and the power of natural ingredients. From the rich, moisturizing properties of Shea Butter (a staple across West Africa for centuries, packed with vitamins A and E, and essential fatty acids ) to the nourishing qualities of Baobab Oil and the soothing nature of Aloe Vera, these ingredients have been passed down through generations. The Chébé ritual of Chad, for example, involves a paste made from Chébé seeds, cherry seeds, and cloves, a practice passed down for generations to promote length and luster (Premium Beauty News, 2024). These traditional ingredients and practices stand in stark contrast to the chemical straighteners that gained popularity in response to Eurocentric beauty standards.

The CROWN Act’s impact extends to recognizing the authenticity of hair that has been nurtured with these ancestral ingredients, free from the expectation of chemical alteration. It validates a heritage of self-sufficiency and deep connection to the earth’s offerings.

• Shea Butter ❉ A fatty oil extracted from the nuts of the African shea tree, used for centuries to moisturize, protect, and heal skin and hair.
• Chebe Powder ❉ Derived from the Croton Gratissimus plant, traditionally used by Chadian women to strengthen hair and reduce breakage.
• Marula Oil ❉ From the marula tree, often called “The Tree of Life” oil, rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, used to protect against dryness and breakage (Katherine Haircare, 2025).
• African Black Soap ❉ A traditional cleanser from West Africa, made from plantain skins, cocoa pods, and shea tree bark, known for its gentle cleansing properties.

Confronting Systemic Bias and Claiming Space

The true power of the CROWN Act lies in its direct confrontation with systemic racism and the pervasive biases that have historically targeted Black hair. For too long, natural hairstyles have been deemed “unprofessional” or “unsuitable” in educational and professional environments, leading to discriminatory practices that deny opportunities and cause psychological distress. A 2020 study by Duke University found that Black women with natural hairstyles were perceived as less professional, less competent, and less likely to be recommended for job interviews compared to Black women with straightened hair or white women (Rosette, 2020).

This finding provides clear empirical evidence of the societal bias against natural Black hairstyles in the workplace. This systematic devaluation has forced many Black individuals to alter their hair, incurring financial costs and emotional burdens, simply to conform to Eurocentric standards of appearance (LDF, n.d.).

The CROWN Act, by expanding the legal definition of race to include hair texture and protective styles, creates a legal shield against such discrimination. It acknowledges that hair is an inextricable part of racial identity (Johnson & Bankhead, 2014; Thompson, 2009; Williams, 2019) and that discrimination based on hair is, in essence, racial discrimination. This legislation is a significant step towards dismantling policies that preserve “white spaces” by advancing Anglo-Saxon cultural norms as the default (EPI, 2023).

It means that a student can wear their ancestral braids to school without fear of suspension, and a professional can wear their locs to work without jeopardizing their career. The act is a legal validation of a deeply personal and collective heritage, affirming the right to exist authentically.

The passage of the CROWN Act in various states represents a powerful relay of ancestral resilience into contemporary legal frameworks. It carries forward the fight against historical injustices, transforming individual acts of defiance into collective legal protection. The movement for the CROWN Act itself is a testament to community organizing and advocacy, echoing the historical struggles for civil rights and self-determination. It is a declaration that the rich heritage of textured hair will no longer be a reason for marginalization, but a source of pride and a protected expression of identity.

Reflection

As we consider the path traversed by the CROWN Act, its relationship to the heritage of Black hair reveals itself not as a static decree, but as a living affirmation, a continuation of a profound, enduring story. The act does more than simply legislate against prejudice; it formally acknowledges the profound historical and cultural weight carried by every coil and strand of textured hair. It stands as a modern echo of ancestral wisdom, a legal declaration that the innate beauty and varied expressions of Black and mixed-race hair are not only acceptable but sacred.

This legislation reminds us that hair is a vital component of identity, a connection to lineage, and a canvas for cultural expression. It is a movement towards a world where the soul of a strand is seen, honored, and protected, allowing the radiant legacy of textured hair to shine without impediment, forever unbound.

References

• Byrd, A. & Tharps, L. (2001). Hair Story ❉ Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America. St. Martin’s Press.
• Economic Policy Institute. (2023, July 26). The CROWN Act ❉ A jewel for combating racial discrimination in the workplace and classroom.
• Helix Hair Labs. (2023, March 3). The History of the Hair Bonnet.
• Johnson, K. & Bankhead, T. (2014). Hair It Is ❉ Examining the Experiences of Black Women with Natural Hair. Advances in Applied Sociology, 4(2), 86-93.
• Katherine Haircare. (2025, April 18). This Homemade Afro Hair Product is 10x Better than Just Shea.
• Legal Defense Fund. (n.d.). Hair Discrimination FAQ.
• Perception Institute. (2016). “Good Hair” Study.
• Premium Beauty News. (2024, July 3). Ancestral hair-paste ritual gains new life in Chad.
• Rosette, A. S. (2020, August 12). Research Suggests Bias Against Natural Hair Limits Job Opportunities for Black Women. Duke’s Fuqua School of Business.
• St. Clair Detrick-Jules. (2022). My Beautiful Black Hair ❉ 101 Natural Hair Stories from the Sisterhood. Abrams.
• Substack. (2025, May 4). Ancestral Hair Rituals to Nourish Your Hair and Soul.
• Byrdie. (2022, September 27). The Significance and History of Bonnets.