# What Does the CROWN Act Aim to Achieve for Textured Hair? ❉ Question

**Published:** 2025-06-04
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Question

---

_
![This portrait resonates with self-assured elegance. A symbol of resilience, protective styling in the form of braided hair and head wraps, speaks to ancestral heritage and holistic hair care while honoring cultural identity](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-woman-with-braided-crown-and-head-wrap-style.jpg)

## Roots

The very strands that crown us carry stories, whispered from ancestral lands across oceans and generations. For Black and mixed-race people, [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) has always been a living archive, a direct connection to a vibrant lineage. It holds the echoes of ancient rites, the resilience forged through oppression, and the enduring spirit of identity. The CROWN Act, a legislative undertaking that seeks to create a respectful and open world for natural hair, reaches beyond legal statutes; it is a profound affirmation of this inherited legacy, a recognition that the coiled, kinky, and wavy textures adorning millions are not mere aesthetic choices, but deeply rooted expressions of self and kin. 

Consider, if you will, the biological marvel that is textured hair. Each helix, born from the scalp, follows a journey guided by its unique follicular shape ❉ an elliptical rather than round cross-section, causing the hair shaft to twist and coil as it grows. This inherent structure grants textured hair its remarkable elasticity, its glorious volume, and its often deceptive strength, characteristics traditionally honored in many African communities. Scientific understanding now allows us to appreciate the micro-anatomical reasons for its characteristic curl patterns, a physical reality that has, tragically, often been misjudged and penalized in societies that hold [Eurocentric beauty standards](/area/eurocentric-beauty-standards/) as a universal norm. 

> The CROWN Act acknowledges that the unique biology of textured hair is inextricably bound to a rich heritage, deserving of legal protection against bias and unfair judgment.
Across the African continent, hair was never simply about superficial appearance. It served as a sophisticated visual language. Different styles could communicate a person’s age, marital status, social standing, tribal affiliation, and even spiritual beliefs. The Himba people of Southwest Africa, for instance, traditionally style their hair with thick braids adorned with otjize, a mixture of ochre, butter, and herbs, a practice that signifies cultural pride and offers a visible connection to their ancestry.

The intricate patterns of cornrows, often called “canerows” in the Caribbean, were not just practical styles; they served as identifiers showcasing ethnic backgrounds and geographical locations, even carrying secret messages during periods of extreme hardship, like the routes to freedom during chattel slavery. This deep, communicative tradition underscores that hair was, and remains, a vital component of identity, far removed from arbitrary rules of “professionalism.”

![This stark visual of monochrome wood end grain symbolizes enduring Black hair traditions, where each spiral represents generations of resilience and care the wood](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-end-grain-wood-texture-rings-ancestral-growth-patterns.jpg)

## Understanding Hair’s Ancestral Design

From a biological perspective, what makes textured hair distinct lies in its structural makeup, which, when coupled with historical practices, reveals a deep interplay between natural form and cultural reverence. 

- **Follicular Shape** ❉ The elliptical or flattened shape of the follicle dictates the degree of curl, causing the hair strand to coil as it exits the scalp. This creates tighter curls and coils, affecting how natural oils travel down the hair shaft.

- **Cuticle Layering** ❉ Textured hair often exhibits a raised cuticle layer, which can contribute to its natural dryness compared to straighter hair types. Ancestral care practices, rich in moisturizing ingredients, intuitively addressed this particular biological need, long before modern science articulated it.

- **Density and Volume** ❉ While individual strands may seem finer, the sheer number of hair follicles and their natural coiling patterns often result in greater overall density and volume, offering a majestic crown that has been celebrated in countless traditional adornments.
The CROWN Act’s reach extends to these intrinsic characteristics, aiming to dismantle the legal and societal structures that have penalized [natural hair](/area/natural-hair/) textures, thereby restoring reverence for hair’s biological and historical forms. It seeks to undo centuries of imposed uniformity, allowing hair to exist in its natural state without fear of penalty. This protection extends to styles such as **braids**, **locs**, **twists**, and **Afros**, all of which are deeply rooted in Black and mixed-race cultural identity. 

![The monochrome tones accentuate the beauty and resilience in her tightly coiled hair, a textured crown that reflects a powerful legacy. Light and shadow sculpt a portrait that invites contemplation on ancestral roots, identity expression, and the art of holistic hair care traditions](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-woman-showcasing-defined-coiled-textured-hair.jpg)

## Where Did the Idea of Unprofessional Hair Originate?

The notion that certain hair textures or styles are “unprofessional” is a relatively recent construct within the long human history of hair, deeply tied to the rise of Eurocentric beauty standards during colonial periods and their enduring legacy. This idea, rather than being an objective assessment of competence, served as a tool for social control and the policing of Black bodies. Historical roots of this bias stretch back to the era of enslavement, when colonizers often shaved the heads of captured Africans, a dehumanizing act designed to strip them of their cultural markers and identities. 

Later, after emancipation, laws like the **Tignon Laws** of 1786 in Louisiana mandated that free [Black women](/area/black-women/) cover their hair with a knotted headdress, ostensibly to prevent them from attracting white men, but in reality, to assert social hierarchy and control. This legal imposition marks a direct historical link between legislation, hair, and the systematic suppression of Black identity. Such historical precedents reveal that the idea of “unprofessional” hair is not a neutral concept; it is a direct continuation of systemic racism.

A 2023 research study found that Black women’s hair is 2.5 times as likely as white women’s hair to be perceived as “unprofessional,” with two-thirds (66%) of Black women changing their hair for job interviews. This stark statistic underscores the persistent societal pressure to conform, a pressure that the [CROWN Act](/area/crown-act/) directly challenges.

![This arresting image celebrates the richness and versatility of textured hair through the elaborate braided crown. The interplay of light and shadow highlights the intricate formations, reflecting a narrative of cultural heritage, expressive styling, and the enduring beauty of Black hair traditions in this stunning visual exploration](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-portrait-of-elegant-woman-with-braided-crown-hairstyle.jpg)

![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)

## Ritual

The journey of textured [hair care](/area/hair-care/) has always been deeply personal and communal, a ritual passed down through generations, shaped by necessity, creativity, and profound cultural wisdom. The CROWN Act recognizes the importance of these living rituals, not just as private acts, but as expressions that deserve protection in the public square. When we consider the hands that first braided hair on the African continent, the shared stories during styling sessions, or the whispered remedies for dryness, we begin to appreciate hair care as a vibrant thread connecting us to a collective ancestry. 

For millennia, African communities developed intricate hair care practices using readily available natural ingredients. Shea butter, often harvested from the karite tree, served as a potent moisturizer and sealant, its rich fatty acids nourishing both scalp and strand. Coconut oil, aloe vera, and various plant extracts were also staple ingredients, intuitively understood for their protective and restorative properties. These ingredients were not merely functional; their gathering and application were often interwoven with community gatherings, storytelling, and the sharing of knowledge, making the act of care a ritual of connection and cultural continuity. 

> The CROWN Act stands as a sentinel, guarding the communal memory held within styling rituals and the tools that bring textured hair to life.
The very tools used in these styling practices also carry historical resonance. The earliest known hair combs, often crafted from wood or bone, date back thousands of years. The Afro pick, for instance, has origins believed to stretch back nearly 6000 years, an ancient tool designed to navigate and shape the unique density of coiled textures. These objects are not just implements; they are artifacts of ingenuity, reflecting a deep understanding of textured hair’s specific needs and the cultural artistry applied to its care. 

![The interplay of light and shadow highlights the intricate coiled hair formation and the sharp lines of the undercut, creating a compelling visual dialogue between ancestral heritage and modern hairstyling. Her gaze invites contemplation on identity, beauty, and the empowering act of self-definition through unique textured hair artistry](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-woman-with-high-contrast-coiled-hair-and-undercut.jpg)

## How Does the CROWN Act Protect Styling Heritage?

The CROWN Act directly addresses the policing of natural hairstyles, which are often integral to Black and mixed-race heritage. The legislation prohibits discrimination based on [hair texture](/area/hair-texture/) and specific [protective styles](/area/protective-styles/) such as **braids**, **locs**, **twists**, **Bantu knots**, and **Afros**. This protection is vital because these styles are not merely trends; they are direct links to [ancestral practices](/area/ancestral-practices/) and cultural expression. 

Consider the profound significance of protective styling. These styles, which tuck away the ends of the hair, shield it from environmental damage and reduce manipulation, have ancestral roots across Africa. For enslaved Africans, these styles became a means of silent protest and a way to resist cultural erasure, providing a connection to their homeland and a reminder of their worth.

The act of braiding in particular was, and remains, a deeply communal and intimate experience in many African cultures. Mothers, sisters, and friends would gather, sharing stories and strengthening bonds, while preserving [cultural identity](/area/cultural-identity/) through the rhythmic motion of braiding.

The CROWN Act ensures that this legacy of adaptive and artistic styling is not penalized in modern workplaces or schools. This means: 

- **Preservation of Identity** ❉ Individuals can wear styles deeply connected to their cultural identity without fear of losing employment or educational opportunities.

- **Economic Relief** ❉ The economic burden of constantly straightening or altering hair to conform to Eurocentric standards, which can cost significantly over time, is alleviated. This allows individuals to invest in care practices that honor their hair’s natural state.

- **Health Considerations** ❉ By allowing natural and protective styles, the Act indirectly supports healthier hair practices, reducing reliance on chemical relaxers or excessive heat, which have been linked to adverse health outcomes.

![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)

## Traditional Tools and Their Modern Echoes

The tools of hair care have evolved, yet their purpose often mirrors the needs understood by our ancestors. The continuity between past and present practices is a testament to the enduring wisdom surrounding textured hair. 

The CROWN Act, through its protective stance on natural hairstyles, reinforces the dignity of these historical practices and the tools that bring them to fruition, ensuring that individuals can freely honor their [hair heritage](/area/hair-heritage/) in all spaces. 

![This dramatic portrait honors ancestral heritage through avant-garde Fulani braiding artistry, showcasing the interplay of light and shadow on intricate textured hair forms, the design celebrates Black expressive styling while promoting holistic hair care, reflecting cultural pride in low porosity high-density coils and traditional hair practices.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/avant-garde-braided-crown-a-celebration-of-black-textured-hair-artistry.jpg)

![The child](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/young-african-child-adorned-with-intricate-coiled-hair-style-and-beadwork.jpg)

## Relay

The journey of textured hair from ancestral veneration to modern legal protection is a powerful relay, a passing of the baton through generations of resilience and cultural affirmation. The CROWN Act represents a crucial leg in this race, striving to rectify historical injustices and secure a future where the beauty of natural hair is universally respected, not merely tolerated. It addresses a systemic issue that has profoundly impacted Black and mixed-race communities for centuries, acknowledging that [hair discrimination](/area/hair-discrimination/) is, at its core, racial discrimination. 

Historically, policies that prohibited [natural hairstyles](/area/natural-hairstyles/) served to preserve white spaces and enforce Eurocentric professionalism. These rules justified removing Black children from classrooms and Black adults from employment, creating significant barriers to education and livelihood. The CROWN Act aims to dismantle these exclusionary practices by expanding the definition of race in [anti-discrimination](/area/anti-discrimination/) laws to explicitly include hair texture and protective styles. This legal clarification means that denying opportunities based on someone’s Afro, braids, locs, twists, or Bantu knots becomes unlawful discrimination. 

> The CROWN Act’s legal framework seeks to bridge the chasm between historic prejudice and equitable societal acceptance for textured hair, honoring its long-standing heritage.
The movement for the CROWN Act is a direct response to a long history of systemic bias. For example, a 2019 study by Dove found that Black women were 80 percent more likely than non-Black women to report having to alter their hair to fit in at work. The same study indicated that Black women with natural or braided hair were consistently rated as “less ready” for job performance.

This widespread bias highlights the enduring social and economic consequences of hair discrimination, consequences that the CROWN Act seeks to mitigate by providing tangible legal recourse. Over 44% of Black women workers in the United States live in states that have yet to pass CROWN Act legislation, underscoring the ongoing vulnerability to hair-based discrimination.

![The image celebrates cultural richness and beauty practices. The woman embodies self-expression through her natural hair texture and adornments](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-a-woman-with-exquisite-crown-of-textured-coils.jpg)

## How Does the CROWN Act Correct Historical Legal Oversights?

Prior to the CROWN Act, federal anti-discrimination laws, such as Title VII of the [Civil Rights Act](/area/civil-rights-act/) of 1964, did not explicitly define race to include hair texture or protective hairstyles. This created a loophole, allowing employers and schools to engage in what was effectively race-based discrimination under the guise of “grooming policies” or “professionalism” standards. The 1976 case of <i>Jenkins v. Blue Cross Mutual Hospital Insurance_, while upholding a race discrimination lawsuit against an employer for bias against afros, did not broadly extend protections against hair discrimination, leaving much ambiguity. 

The CROWN Act intervenes directly to close this loophole. By explicitly adding hair texture and protective hairstyles to the definition of race, it removes the legal ambiguity that has allowed discriminatory practices to persist. This legal redefinition is significant because it acknowledges that these hair characteristics are not merely “choices” but are inextricably linked to racial identity and heritage. It codifies a truth that Black communities have known for centuries: hair is a physical marker of race that has been historically targeted for subjugation. 

![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](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/applying-hair-cream-to-coiled-hair-a-black-and-white-portrait.jpg)

## The Impact on Public Spaces and Opportunities

The CROWN Act’s influence extends to various public accommodations and educational settings, working to ensure equitable access and treatment. 

- **Workplaces** ❉ The Act prohibits discriminatory hiring practices, employment conditions, and termination based on natural hair. It aims to prevent situations where Black individuals are denied jobs or promotions because their natural hair is deemed “unprofessional.”

- **Educational Institutions** ❉ It protects students from being disciplined, suspended, or expelled due to their hair texture or protective styles. This ensures that Black children can attend school without facing penalties for wearing culturally significant hairstyles, which previously led to missed instructional time.

- **Housing and Public Accommodations** ❉ While its primary focus began in employment and education, the federal CROWN Act aims to broaden protections to housing programs and public accommodations, ensuring broader societal acceptance.
The CROWN Act serves as a legislative acknowledgment of the ongoing need for legal protections against discrimination based on phenotypical markers that signify race. It offers a pathway to restore dignity and respect for cultural expression, recognizing the inherent value and history held within every strand of textured hair. This legislative endeavor is a testament to the enduring power of advocacy, drawing from centuries of resistance against hair-based oppression, striving for a future where ancestral heritage is celebrated, not suppressed. 

![Bathed in sunlight, these Black and mixed-race women actively engage in hair care, highlighting the beauty and diversity inherent in textured hair formations. Their engagement is an act of self-love rooted in ancestral heritage, echoing a commitment to holistic hair wellness and empowered self-expression](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-mixed-race-women-combing-out-natural-hair-freshly-washed.jpg)

![This evocative portrait celebrates textured hair through a complex crown braid. It symbolizes cultural artistry, embracing heritage](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-woman-crown-braid-hairstyle-textured-hair-cultural-heritage.jpg)

## Reflection

The journey through the intricate world of textured hair and the CROWN Act reveals more than just legislative intent; it uncovers a profound meditation on the enduring legacy of our strands. Each coil, every loc, and every braid carries within it not only the blueprint of our biology but also the whispers of ancient hands, the echoes of communal rituals, and the defiant spirit of those who wore their heritage as a crown despite attempts to dim its luster. The CROWN Act, in its legislative reach, is a contemporary echo of this ancestral wisdom, a formal recognition of what the soul of a strand has always known: our hair is a sacred extension of who we are, woven from history and destined to shape our future. 

This Act, therefore, does not simply alter legal definitions; it invites a societal shift in perception, a reimagining of beauty and professionalism that is expansive enough to honor all expressions of human identity. It calls upon us to look at textured hair, not as something to be tamed or hidden, but as a vibrant testament to survival, creativity, and unbroken lineage. The legacy of the CROWN Act is not solely in the policies it changes today, but in the pathways it clears for tomorrow, allowing coming generations to walk freely, their natural hair a visible celebration of their rich and undeniable heritage, unburdened by past prejudices. It promises a world where the stories held within each strand can finally unfold, respected and revered. 

![This monochrome still life of citrus remnants suggests the ancestral wisdom in utilizing natural extracts for textured hair. The photograph highlights the potential for holistic, botanical-based formulations to nurture hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-still-life-of-citrus-skins-for-textured-hair-care-ingredients.jpg)

![The image conveys a moment of intimate care, as hands apply a rich moisturizer to tightly coiled hair, celebrating the beauty and strength of Black hair traditions and holistic care. This act embodies cultural identity, ancestral connection, and wellness for expressive styling, nourishing the hair](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/nourishing-textured-hair-deep-moisture-treatment-application-black-and-white.jpg)

## References

- Carlisle, Madeleine. “Rep. Ayanna Pressley Reveals Her Hair Loss as She Share Her ‘Very Personal’ Alopecia Diagnosis.” Time, January 16, 2020.

- Dawson, Gabriel A. Karl, Katherine A. and Peluchette, Joy V. “Hair matters: Toward understanding natural black hair bias in the workplace.” Journal of Leadership & Organizational Studies, 26(3), 389 ❉ 401, 2019.

- Economic Policy Institute. “The CROWN Act: A jewel for combating racial discrimination in the workplace and classroom.” July 26, 2023.

- Few, April and Allen, Briana. “Uneasy Lies the Head that Wears a Crown”: A Critical Race Analysis of the CROWN Act. Journal of Social Media in Society, 8(1), 105 ❉ 123, 2024.

- Jones, Chasity. EEOC v. Catastrophe Management Solutions. 852 F. 3d 1018 (11th Cir. 2016).

- NAACP Legal Defense Fund. “Hair Discrimination FAQ.”

- Nyela, Océane. “Braided Archives: Black hair as a site of diasporic transindividuation.” Master’s Thesis, York University, 2021.

- Oxford Academic. “Afro-Textured Hair and the CROWN Act.” Sister Style: The Politics of Appearance for Black Women Political Elites. 2021.

- Rosado, M. “Hair as a repository of knowledge.” Ph.D. diss. University of Massachusetts Amherst, 2003.

- Stiel, Leslie et al. “Hair Relaxer Use and Breast Cancer Risk in the Black Women’s Health Study.” Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, 24(9), 1367-1372, 2015.

## Glossary

### [Hair Discrimination](https://roothea.co/area/hair-discrimination/)

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.

### [Tignon Act](https://roothea.co/area/tignon-act/)

Meaning ❉ The Tignon Act, a legislative measure from 1786 New Orleans, directed free women of color to cover their hair with cloth headwraps, known as tignons.

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

Meaning ❉ The CROWN Act Definition signifies a gentle, yet powerful, legal affirmation against discrimination rooted in hair texture and protective styles, particularly for individuals with Black and mixed-heritage hair.

### [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 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.

### [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.

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

Meaning ❉ The CROWN Act establishes legal protections against discrimination based on hair texture and styles frequently worn by individuals of Black or mixed heritage.

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

Meaning ❉ The CROWN Act Movement represents a legislative effort to prohibit discrimination based on hair texture and protective styles, such as locs, braids, and twists, within professional and academic environments.

### [Anti-Discrimination](https://roothea.co/area/anti-discrimination/)

Meaning ❉ Anti-Discrimination, in the gentle landscape of textured hair, speaks to the active dismantling of historical biases and systemic inequities that have long clouded the understanding and care of Black and mixed hair.

### [Ancestral Practices](https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-practices/)

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.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [What Historical Significance Does Hair Porosity Hold for Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-significance-does-hair-porosity-hold-for-textured-hair/)
![The monochrome palette underscores the innate beauty of 4c hair, styled to showcase helix definition and the elegance of Black hair traditions, highlighting sebaceous balance care. Its ancestral roots invite contemplation on low porosity hair and protective styling.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-woman-with-dynamic-kinky-curly-hair-and-protective-style.jpg)

### [What Does the CROWN Act Signify for Hair Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/what-does-the-crown-act-signify-for-hair-heritage/)
![The image captures women’s involvement in food preparation alongside their head coverings reflective of cultural heritage, suggesting shared ancestral knowledge, with possible references to ingredients and practices that resonate with holistic textured hair wellness and traditions of beauty within their communities.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/women-sharing-food-preparation-ancestral-heritage-and-hair-care-traditions.jpg)

### [In What Ways Does CROWN Act Validate Diverse Textured Hair Expressions?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-does-crown-act-validate-diverse-textured-hair-expressions/)
![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 Cultural Heritage Relate to Modern Hair Care for Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-cultural-heritage-relate-to-modern-hair-care-for-textured-hair/)
![This portrait presents a powerful expression of identity through hairstyling. With precision lines and expertly textured hair, it represents not just an aesthetic choice but celebrates cultural heritage and artistic individuality within textured hair traditions.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-a-woman-with-short-textured-hair-and-clean-lines.jpg)

### [In What Ways Does the CROWN Act Support Ancestral Hair Care Practices?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-does-the-crown-act-support-ancestral-hair-care-practices/)
![Within the quietude of nature, an ancestral haircare ritual unfolds, blending botanical wisdom with the intentional care of her crown, nourishing coils and springs, reflecting generations of knowledge passed down to nurture and celebrate textured hair](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-preparing-ancestral-textured-hair-remedies-underneath-a-sprawling-tree.jpg)

### [How Does Ancient African Wisdom Inform Modern Protective Hair Routines for Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-ancient-african-wisdom-inform-modern-protective-hair-routines-for-textured-hair/)
![This image embodies the fusion of ancestral heritage and present-day artistry, as an elder skillfully weaves a hair adornment onto textured hair, reflecting holistic well-being and cultural pride through the careful selection of natural materials and practiced techniques passed down through generations.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elderly-woman-weaving-tradition-textured-hair-ancestral-craft-black-and-white.jpg)

### [How Does Hair Oiling Protect Textured Hair at Night?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-hair-oiling-protect-textured-hair-at-night/)
![Echoing ancestral beauty rituals, the wooden hair fork signifies a commitment to holistic textured hair care. The monochromatic palette accentuates the timeless elegance, connecting contemporary styling with heritage and promoting wellness through mindful adornment for diverse black hair textures.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/artisan-crafted-wooden-hair-fork-for-textured-hair-holistic-care-rituals.jpg)

### [What Cultural Significance Does Hair Oiling Hold for Textured Hair Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/what-cultural-significance-does-hair-oiling-hold-for-textured-hair-heritage/)
![This portrait evokes Old Hollywood splendor through the lens of contemporary beauty standards. The strategic shaping of her hair emphasizes ancestral heritage and offers a sophisticated take on natural expressive styling.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-portrait-of-a-woman-with-exquisite-finger-wave-hairstyle.jpg)

### [What Enduring Legacy Does Historical Hair Oppression Carry for Textured Hair Traditions?](https://roothea.co/question/what-enduring-legacy-does-historical-hair-oppression-carry-for-textured-hair-traditions/)
![This evocative profile showcases a sleek braided style that respects Black hair traditions. The subject](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-woman-with-braided-hairstyle-in-profile-view.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": "What Does the CROWN Act Aim to Achieve for Textured Hair?",
            "item": "https://roothea.co/question/what-does-the-crown-act-aim-to-achieve-for-textured-hair/"
        }
    ]
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "Article",
    "mainEntityOfPage": {
        "@type": "WebPage",
        "@id": "https://roothea.co/question/what-does-the-crown-act-aim-to-achieve-for-textured-hair/"
    },
    "headline": "What Does the CROWN Act Aim to Achieve for Textured Hair? ❉ Question",
    "description": "The CROWN Act aims to end race-based hair discrimination, recognizing textured hair as a protected racial trait, thus safeguarding ancestral heritage. ❉ Question",
    "url": "https://roothea.co/question/what-does-the-crown-act-aim-to-achieve-for-textured-hair/",
    "author": {
        "@type": "Person",
        "name": "Roothea",
        "url": "https://roothea.co/author/roothea/"
    },
    "datePublished": "2025-06-04T12:44:33+08:00",
    "dateModified": "2025-06-04T12:44:33+08:00",
    "publisher": {
        "@type": "Organization",
        "name": "Roothea"
    },
    "articleSection": [
        "Question"
    ],
    "image": {
        "@type": "ImageObject",
        "url": "https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/applying-hydrating-hair-mask-to-wet-high-porosity-coils-for-curl-definition.jpg",
        "caption": "This striking study in chiaroscuro reveals a commitment to scalp health and showcases the application of a nourishing hair mask. The emphasis lies on enriching high porosity coils while fostering sebaceous balance, revealing the timeless beauty of textured hair forms, thus honoring ancestral care."
    }
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "FAQPage",
    "mainEntity": [
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "Where Did the Idea of Unprofessional Hair Originate?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": "\nThe notion that certain hair textures or styles are \"unprofessional\" is a relatively recent construct within the long human history of hair, deeply tied to the rise of Eurocentric beauty standards during colonial periods and their enduring legacy. This idea, rather than being an objective assessment of competence, served as a tool for social control and the policing of Black bodies. Historical roots of this bias stretch back to the era of enslavement, when colonizers often shaved the heads of captured Africans, a dehumanizing act designed to strip them of their cultural markers and identities.\n"
            }
        },
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "How Does the CROWN Act Protect Styling Heritage?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": "\nThe CROWN Act directly addresses the policing of natural hairstyles, which are often integral to Black and mixed-race heritage. The legislation prohibits discrimination based on hair texture and specific protective styles such as braids, locs, twists, Bantu knots, and Afros. This protection is vital because these styles are not merely trends; they are direct links to ancestral practices and cultural expression.\n"
            }
        },
        {
            "@type": "Question",
            "name": "How Does the CROWN Act Correct Historical Legal Oversights?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": "\nPrior to the CROWN Act, federal anti-discrimination laws, such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, did not explicitly define race to include hair texture or protective hairstyles. This created a loophole, allowing employers and schools to engage in what was effectively race-based discrimination under the guise of \"grooming policies\" or \"professionalism\" standards. The 1976 case of Jenkins v. Blue Cross Mutual Hospital Insurance, while upholding a race discrimination lawsuit against an employer for bias against afros, did not broadly extend protections against hair discrimination, leaving much ambiguity.\n"
            }
        }
    ]
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "WebPage",
    "@id": "https://roothea.co/question/what-does-the-crown-act-aim-to-achieve-for-textured-hair/",
    "mentions": [
        {
            "@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/eurocentric-beauty-standards/",
            "name": "Eurocentric Beauty Standards",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/eurocentric-beauty-standards/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Eurocentric beauty standards denote a historical leaning towards hair characteristics commonly found within European lineages, such as straightness, fineness, or gentle waves, alongside particular color and density ideals."
        },
        {
            "@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/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/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/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/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-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/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/hair-heritage/",
            "name": "Hair Heritage",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-heritage/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Heritage denotes the ancestral continuum of knowledge, customary practices, and genetic characteristics that shape the distinct nature of Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@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/anti-discrimination/",
            "name": "Anti-Discrimination",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/anti-discrimination/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Anti-Discrimination, in the gentle landscape of textured hair, speaks to the active dismantling of historical biases and systemic inequities that have long clouded the understanding and care of Black and mixed hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-hairstyles/",
            "name": "Natural Hairstyles",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-hairstyles/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Natural Hairstyles, within the context of textured hair understanding, refers to styling practices that honor the inherent curl, coil, or wave patterns of Black and mixed-race hair without chemical alteration or significant heat manipulation."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/civil-rights-act/",
            "name": "Civil Rights Act",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/civil-rights-act/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The Civil Rights Act, a landmark legislative measure, gently cleared pathways for individuals to express their personal identity, extending its protective reach to the deeply personal realm of hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/tignon-act/",
            "name": "Tignon Act",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/tignon-act/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The Tignon Act, a legislative measure from 1786 New Orleans, directed free women of color to cover their hair with cloth headwraps, known as tignons."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-definition/",
            "name": "CROWN Act Definition",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-definition/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The CROWN Act Definition signifies a gentle, yet powerful, legal affirmation against discrimination rooted in hair texture and protective styles, particularly for individuals with Black and mixed-heritage hair."
        },
        {
            "@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-movement/",
            "name": "CROWN Act Movement",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/crown-act-movement/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The CROWN Act Movement represents a legislative effort to prohibit discrimination based on hair texture and protective styles, such as locs, braids, and twists, within professional and academic environments."
        }
    ]
}
```


---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/question/what-does-the-crown-act-aim-to-achieve-for-textured-hair/
