# What Historical Discrimination Do Hair Heritage Laws Address in Schools? ❉ Question

**Published:** 2025-06-10
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Question

---

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![Radiant smiles reflect connection as textured hair is meticulously braided affirming cultural heritage, community and the art of expressive styling. This moment underscores the deep rooted tradition of Black hair care as self care, celebrating identity and skilled artistry in textured hair formation for wellness](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/women-braiding-textured-hair-black-hair-traditions-expressive-styling-portrait.jpg)

## Roots

The very fibers of our being, the essence of our heritage, often find expression in the spiraled wonders that crown our heads. To truly understand the journey of textured hair, one must first feel the resonance of its roots, reaching back through millennia. For generations, the hair of Black and mixed-race individuals has been more than mere biology; it has served as a profound repository of ancestry, a language of identity, and a sacred marker of belonging.

The laws now taking hold in our schools, designed to safeguard hair heritage, speak to a long, vexing history of attempts to sever these vital connections, to diminish what naturally thrives. They address the systemic efforts to impose a singular, narrow standard of beauty, often Eurocentric, upon a vast and diverse spectrum of curl patterns, coils, and locs that tell stories of resilience and profound cultural memory.

The core of this legislative response lies in acknowledging how discriminatory practices targeted the very form and presentation of textured hair. Consider, for a moment, the intricate dance of a melanin-rich strand, its unique elliptical shape, its inherent spring, and its delicate protein bonds. This intricate architecture, so vibrant and varied, became a point of contention in environments meant for learning and growth. Historically, schools, as microcosms of society, often reflected and enforced broader societal biases, framing natural Black hairstyles as “unprofessional” or “unruly”.

These policies sought to mandate a conformity that demanded the suppression of a visible heritage, forcing students to alter their hair to fit a narrow aesthetic, frequently with damaging consequences. The concept of “good hair,” often defined as straight or loosely curled, emerged from this oppressive framework, creating internal divisions within communities and external pressures to conform to unattainable ideals.

![Expert hands meticulously sectioning afro-textured hair for a protective style application highlights the dedication to preserving ancestral heritage, showcasing the intertwined beauty and holistic wellness within Black hair traditions, and affirming the deep connection to care practices and expressive artistry.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/stylists-hands-precisely-sectioning-textured-hair-for-protective-style.jpg)

## What Is the Historical Context of Hair Discrimination in Schools?

To comprehend the deep currents of discrimination, one must look to epochs long past. The brutal transatlantic slave trade, a dark chapter in human history, began a process of cultural erasure that extended even to hair. Upon arrival in new lands, enslaved Africans often had their heads shaved, a deliberate act to strip them of their identities, to dismantle the visual language of their tribes, their marital statuses, their ages, and their social standings. This practice was a calculated assault on selfhood, a physical and spiritual violation that sought to sever ties to ancestral lands and traditions.

Even after emancipation, this oppressive spirit mutated into more subtle, yet equally harmful, forms of control. The “Comb Test,” for instance, emerged as a cruel marker of acceptance in some post-slavery American spaces; if a fine-toothed comb could not pass through a person’s hair with ease, entry might be denied. This, too, was a direct assault on the natural, beautifully varied textures of Black hair, linking acceptance to an imposed, alien standard. Such historical currents laid the groundwork for policies that would later permeate educational institutions, requiring [Black students](/area/black-students/) to alter their hair to align with norms never intended for them.

The echoes of these historical subjugations resound in modern school environments. Policies, seemingly neutral on their surface, have often been disproportionately enforced against Black students. These rules, typically cloaked in terms of “dress code” or “grooming standards,” often reflect deeply embedded [Eurocentric beauty](/area/eurocentric-beauty/) ideals.

The intent may have been to foster “conformity,” yet the impact was to penalize hairstyles such as locs, braids, twists, and Afros ❉ styles with profound cultural and spiritual significance for Black and Indigenous communities. This subtle policing, often leading to disciplinary actions, directly undermines a student’s [cultural identity](/area/cultural-identity/) and can obstruct their academic and social-emotional growth.

> Hair heritage laws confront a legacy where the natural curl, coil, and loc of textured hair were systemically deemed lesser, aiming to restore dignity and self-acceptance to students.
The ancestral knowledge of hair care, the techniques passed down through generations, reveal an understanding of [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) that stands in stark contrast to the narratives of its perceived “unruliness.” Ancient African civilizations practiced intricate braiding, twisting, and coiling techniques, not only for aesthetics but for practical reasons: hygiene, protection from the elements, and communication of social status or life events. These practices were holistic, connecting hair to spiritual well-being and communal identity. The denial of these practices, the insistence upon straight hair, often involved harsh chemical treatments or excessive heat, damaging both the hair and the spirit. The movement toward [hair heritage laws](/area/hair-heritage-laws/) today seeks to reclaim these ancient ways, to recognize that these styles are not distractions but rather vital expressions of a rich and living history. 

![The monochrome portrait captures a timeless beauty, celebrating the diverse textures within Black hair traditions light plays across the model](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-monochrome-portrait-of-a-black-woman-with-natural-hair-texture.jpg)

![The monochromatic tones enhance the visual narrative of heritage and sophistication, emphasizing the beauty of braided natural Black hair adorned with cultural symbols. The portrait connects deeply to ancestral traditions through an elegant, expressive styling of hair, promoting wellness and identity](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegantly-braided-natural-hair-adorned-with-jewels-portrait-in-black-and-white.jpg)

## Ritual

Hair care for individuals with textured hair is, at its heart, a ritual ❉ a series of practices steeped in generations of communal knowledge, individual connection, and cultural reverence. These practices extend beyond mere aesthetics, forming a profound part of daily life and communal bonding. They include the art of selecting specific ingredients, the careful application of oils and butters, the skilled shaping into protective styles, and the quiet moments of shared wisdom passed from elder to youth. Historically, school grooming policies often overlooked or actively disparaged these sacred rituals, reducing deeply meaningful expressions to mere “distractions” or “violations”. 

The discrimination addressed by [hair heritage](/area/hair-heritage/) laws extends to the very techniques, tools, and transformations that define textured hair styling. Consider the ancestral roots of [protective styles](/area/protective-styles/) like cornrows, braids, and locs. These are not passing trends but deeply embedded practices, serving functions beyond just appearance. They protected delicate strands from environmental elements, facilitated hygiene, and conveyed intricate social narratives within communities.

Yet, in schools, these styles frequently became targets of disciplinary action. The underlying message was clear: these traditional styles, despite their functional and cultural value, were deemed unacceptable.

![Aloe vera](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/aloe-vera-slices-detail-holistic-textured-hair-care-ingredients-black-and-white.jpg)

## What Is the Cultural Significance of Protective Styles in Black Hair Heritage?

Protective styles stand as a testament to ingenuity and continuity, safeguarding textured hair while allowing for growth and expression. They are a tangible link to a rich heritage, each twist and braid carrying echoes of ancient practices. In many African societies, these styles were visual communication systems, signaling everything from tribal affiliation and marital status to age and social rank. The care involved in their creation often served as intimate social gatherings, spaces where stories were shared, wisdom imparted, and communal bonds strengthened. 

- **Cornrows** ❉ More than a style, historically maps to freedom, intricate patterns sometimes encoding escape routes during enslavement.

- **Locs** ❉ A commitment to natural growth, often symbolizing spiritual connection, maturity, and a rejection of Eurocentric standards.

- **Bantu Knots** ❉ A protective style that can lead to waves and curls, with roots in Southern African traditions, embodying neatness and intention.
The discriminatory policies in [schools](/area/schools/) effectively criminalized these cultural expressions, pushing students to alter their hair or face punishment. This pressure often led to reliance on harsh chemicals for straightening, which, while offering temporary conformity, frequently resulted in damage to the hair and scalp. The pursuit of a “straightened” aesthetic, driven by societal and institutional pressures, represented a forced departure from heritage, impacting not only physical hair health but also the mental and emotional well-being of students. 

> School policies often marginalized styling rituals and protective forms of textured hair, effectively criminalizing cultural expression and connection to heritage.
This imposition of [Eurocentric beauty standards](/area/eurocentric-beauty-standards/) created a duality for students of color: embrace their natural heritage and risk academic or social repercussions, or conform and potentially sacrifice a piece of their identity. The experience, profoundly felt, leaves marks beyond the visible. It can breed feelings of inadequacy and a sense of having to be someone other than one’s authentic self. Hair [heritage laws](/area/heritage-laws/) seek to dismantle these harmful structures, allowing students the freedom to express their identity through their hair without fear of penalty, affirming that their natural beauty and ancestral practices are worthy of respect and celebration. 

![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)

![The image reflects a heritage of natural Black hair care. It reveals a deep bond between women as hair nourishment is applied directly to the scalp](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/melanin-rich-skin-tending-to-natural-black-hair-coils-with-ancient-wisdom.jpg)

## Relay

The enduring saga of discrimination against textured hair culminates in the legislative responses we witness today. These hair heritage laws are a direct answer to persistent, deeply entrenched biases that have historically marginalized Black and mixed-race students within educational systems. They represent a relay, a passing of the torch from the quiet suffering of past generations to a legally affirmed future where identity is protected, not penalized. The laws, such as the various state-level CROWN Acts, stand as a bulwark against policies that, despite often being presented as race-neutral, consistently impose Eurocentric grooming standards on students of color. 

A significant aspect these laws address is the disproportionate disciplinary action faced by Black students. A 2020 report from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) revealed that Black students, who constituted approximately 15% of the U.S. public school student population, accounted for a startling 45% of all school suspensions related to hair dress code violations. This stark disparity illuminates a systematic pattern where natural hairstyles, deeply rooted in cultural heritage, became grounds for exclusion from the classroom, impacting academic opportunity and fostering psychological distress. 

![Illuminated coils offer a glimpse into the intricate nature of Afro textured hair, capturing its inherent strength. This close-up honors the beauty of Black hair textures, celebrating ancestral identity and the profound power of embracing natural style](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/close-up-of-kinky-hair-coils-natural-hair-texture-details.jpg)

## How Does the CROWN Act Address Systemic Hair Discrimination?

The Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair, or CROWN Act, emerged from a coalition of advocates recognizing that existing civil rights legislation often overlooked hair-based discrimination because it focused primarily on immutable racial characteristics. Since its initial passage in California in 2019, the [CROWN Act](/area/crown-act/) has spread across numerous states, explicitly prohibiting discrimination based on [hair texture](/area/hair-texture/) and protective styles, which include locs, braids, twists, and Afros. These laws are a crucial legal intervention, acknowledging that policies penalizing such hairstyles constitute a form of racial discrimination. 

The struggle is not merely theoretical; it is lived by countless students. Consider the case of Darryl George, a Black Texas high school student who, as recently as 2023, faced repeated in-school suspensions for wearing his hair in locs. School officials argued his locs violated length requirements, despite the Texas CROWN Act being signed into law that same year, intended to protect styles associated with racial or cultural identity.

George’s family emphasized the profound cultural and familial significance of his locs, which were intertwined with strands from his grandfather and father, symbolizing an unbroken line of shared heritage. This ongoing legal battle, despite the law’s existence, highlights the resistance sometimes met in enforcing these protections and the deep-seated nature of the discrimination they aim to overcome.

> Hair heritage laws provide legal fortification for identities historically undermined, seeking to dismantle biased grooming policies in educational environments.
The discriminatory practices addressed by these laws extend beyond simple dress code violations. They tap into a painful history where Black individuals felt compelled to alter their natural appearance to secure educational or professional advancement. Research indicates that Black women, for example, are disproportionately perceived as “unprofessional” because of their hair and are significantly more likely to feel the need to straighten their hair to conform to workplace or school norms. This societal pressure, reflecting a pervasive white Anglo-Saxon Protestant cultural standard, becomes an undue burden, diverting energy from learning and self-actualization towards constant vigilance against appearance-based judgment. 

These laws are not simply about hair; they are about affirming the right to cultural expression, dignity, and equity in educational spaces. They challenge the notion that “conformity” must come at the expense of identity, insisting that schools become truly inclusive environments where every student’s heritage is respected. By making it illegal to discriminate based on hair texture and style, these laws are laying a foundational brick for a future where the rich diversity of human appearance is celebrated, rather than suppressed, within the halls of learning. 

The ongoing struggle for recognition and protection reveals how profoundly hair is intertwined with personhood and community. For many, it is not merely an accessory but a living part of ancestral lineage, a testament to endurance and beauty. The fight for hair heritage laws in schools is therefore a fight for the holistic well-being of students, allowing them to bring their full, authentic selves into their educational journeys without fear of judgment or punitive measures. 

![In a moment of tender holistic care, a woman expertly applies a conditioning mask to textured, natural hair, honoring time-honored Black hair traditions. This protective styling and deep conditioning ritual speaks to embracing natural coils and an ancestral heritage with beauty and wellness](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/intimate-moment-woman-applying-hair-mask-to-natural-black-hair-texture.jpg)

![The intricate arrangement of textured citrus becomes a visual ode to the natural ingredients celebrated in ancestral hair rituals, reflecting a deep connection between the earth](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/textured-citrus-pattern-symbolic-of-natural-hair-health-and-heritage.jpg)

## Reflection

The journey of textured hair through the annals of history, from its foundational biology and ancient practices to its contemporary battles for recognition, reveals a profound truth: a strand of hair is never simply a strand. It carries within its helix the echoes of generations, the memory of ancestral wisdom, and the enduring spirit of those who have navigated societal pressures with grace and defiance. Hair heritage laws in schools represent a vital step in acknowledging this intricate legacy, transforming what was once a site of systemic oppression into a cornerstone of affirmation and cultural pride. 

These laws are not merely about external appearance. They are about the internal landscape of identity, the unwritten curriculum of self-worth that every student carries. They seek to heal historical wounds, to mend the fissures created by centuries of external validation being tied to conformity.

When a child can walk into a classroom with their [natural hair](/area/natural-hair/) ❉ whether it be coils, braids, locs, or twists ❉ and know that it is celebrated, not scrutinized, a powerful message of acceptance reverberates through their very being. This freedom allows them to direct their full energy to learning, to connecting, and to discovering their unique place in the world, unburdened by the silent anxieties of being “too much” or “not enough.”

The work, of course, continues beyond legislation. Laws provide the framework, but true change blossoms in the hearts and minds of individuals. It calls for educators to cultivate environments where curiosity about diverse hair heritage flourishes, where implicit biases are confronted, and where every child understands that their hair is a crown, rich with stories and capable of boundless expression. This involves ongoing dialogue, a commitment to cultural competency, and an active partnership with communities to ensure that policies are not only equitable on paper but also in lived experience. 

Roothea’s ‘Soul of a Strand’ ethos reminds us that hair is a living archive, constantly evolving yet tethered to its deep past. The struggle for hair heritage laws in schools is a testament to the power of collective spirit, a relentless push for a world where ancestral practices are revered, natural beauty is unimpeded, and every child’s textured hair is seen as the precious, vibrant inheritance it truly is. This continuing evolution, rooted in respect and understanding, holds the promise of a more luminous future, where the full spectrum of hair heritage can unfurl in freedom and beauty. 

![This striking portrait celebrates the beauty of natural, Afro-textured hair, reflecting ancestral heritage and promoting holistic hair care. The image invites contemplation on self-expression through expressive styling while embracing the unique textures and forms inherent in coiled, natural hair, fostering a powerful narrative](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-woman-with-natural-afro-textured-hair-elegance.jpg)

![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](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-woman-with-natural-coiled-hair-and-confident-gaze-black-and-white.jpg)

## References

- Byrd, Ayana, and Lori Tharps. <i>Hair Story: Untangling The Roots of Black Hair in America_. St. Martin’s Press, 2002.

- Childs, Martha. _Who Told You Your Hair Was Nappy? A Proposal for Replacing an Ineffective Standard for Determining Racially Discriminatory Employment_. 2019.

- Duggins-Clay, Paige, Makiah Lyons, and Tionna Ryan. “Confronting Hair Discrimination in Schools ❉ A Call to Honor Black History by Protecting Student Rights.” _IDRA Newsletter_, February 2025.

- Griffin, L. “Hair and the Black Female Body: Reclaiming the Narrative.” _Howard Law Journal_, 2019.

- Kempf, Chloe, et al. “Advocates Urge Court to End Hair Discrimination in Texas Schools.” _ACLU of Texas_, 5 Dec. 2024.

- Owens Patton, Tracey. _African-American Hair as Culture and Commerce_. The Journal of American Culture, 2006.

- Perception Institute. “The ‘Good Hair’ Study: Examining Bias and Perception Towards Black Women’s Hair.” 2016.

- Powell, Crystal. “Bias, Employment Discrimination, and Black Women’s Hair: Another Way Forward.” _BYU Law Review_, vol. 2018, 2019, pp. 933-67.

- Santi, Christina. “Black News Anchor Fired After Wearing ‘Unprofessional’ Natural Hair.” _Ebony_, Jan. 2020.

- Watson, Deaunna. “How I Helped Students Reclaim Pride for Their Black Hair With My Curriculum.” _EdSurge_, 20 Dec. 2023.

- Williams, Quintessa. “Black Hair as a Battleground: From the DNC Stage to School Suspensions.” _Word In Black_, 23 Aug. 2024.

## Glossary

### [Racial Bias in Schools](https://roothea.co/area/racial-bias-in-schools/)

Meaning ❉ Racial Bias in Schools identifies the quiet, often unseen, institutional inclinations within learning environments that place students at a disadvantage based on their racial identity, particularly impacting those with textured hair.

### [Hair Texture](https://roothea.co/area/hair-texture/)

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.

### [Missionary Schools](https://roothea.co/area/missionary-schools/)

Meaning ❉ Missionary Schools, within the delicate landscape of textured hair understanding, points to historical educational settings.

### [Discrimination Laws](https://roothea.co/area/discrimination-laws/)

Meaning ❉ Discrimination Laws, within the landscape of textured hair understanding, are legislative frameworks designed to safeguard individuals from unfair treatment based on their natural hair textures, protective styles, or hair type characteristics, particularly those associated with Black and mixed-race heritage.

### [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.

### [Cultural Hair](https://roothea.co/area/cultural-hair/)

Meaning ❉ Cultural Hair softly reveals the accumulated wisdom and precise care tenets that stem from the distinct biophysical attributes of textured hair, especially the graceful coils and unique kinks often present within Black and mixed-race heritages.

### [Residential Schools](https://roothea.co/area/residential-schools/)

Meaning ❉ Residential Schools represent a historical period where Indigenous children, including those with textured hair, were often separated from their families and communities, leading to a significant interruption of traditional knowledge transfer concerning Black and mixed-race hair care.

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

Meaning ❉ Anti-Discrimination Laws, within the delicate ecosystem of textured hair understanding, serve as a foundational bulwark, establishing a legal framework designed to safeguard individuals of Black and mixed heritage from unfair treatment based on their hair's natural patterns or protective styles.

### [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.

### [Historical Discrimination](https://roothea.co/area/historical-discrimination/)

Meaning ❉ Historical Discrimination, when considering textured hair, describes the enduring, systemic patterns of disadvantage and unequal treatment directed towards individuals, particularly those with Black and mixed-race hair.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [Can Marula Oil Address Historical Challenges in Textured Hair Care?](https://roothea.co/question/can-marula-oil-address-historical-challenges-in-textured-hair-care/)
![This potent, dark powder embodies ancestral wisdom, offering a gateway to the restoration and strengthening of textured hair, evoking images of time-honored Black hair traditions focused on deep cleansing, natural vitality, and rooted identity.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/fine-textured-powder-ashy-pigment-close-up-for-black-hair-mask.jpg)

### [How Does Ghassoul Clay Address Scalp Balance for Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-ghassoul-clay-address-scalp-balance-for-textured-hair/)
![Defined 4a finger coils exemplify intentional texture styling embracing the wearer](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-african-american-woman-showcasing-finger-coils-and-edges.jpg)

### [How Does the CROWN Act Empower Textured Hair Heritage in Schools and Workplaces?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-the-crown-act-empower-textured-hair-heritage-in-schools-and-workplaces/)
![The portrait captures a profound sense of wisdom and strength emanating from her detailed afro braided hair, reflecting African ancestral beauty traditions. Woven hair ornaments enhance textured elegance, a legacy of holistic cultural expressions and enduring commitment to heritage and wellness.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/resilient-elder-with-braided-afro-textured-hair-and-traditional-adornments.jpg)

### [In What Ways Does Hair Discrimination Diminish Cultural Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-does-hair-discrimination-diminish-cultural-heritage/)
![The textured hair styles and the cooperative act of grinding grain symbolizes community wellness. This scene emphasizes the interwoven nature of ancestral heritage, cultural identity, and holistic hair care practices, reflecting the traditional roots and beauty rituals deeply embedded within Black communities.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-image-depicting-grinding-grain-with-traditional-hair-wraps.jpg)

### [In What Ways Does Hair Discrimination Relate to Genetic Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-does-hair-discrimination-relate-to-genetic-heritage/)
![The textured surface of the shea butter block, captured in monochrome, speaks to the rich heritage of natural hair care. Its emollient properties, a staple in ancestral African and Black hair traditions, offer deep hydration and coil strengthening, essential for healthy, resilient hair textures.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-close-up-of-shea-butter-block-for-textured-hair-care.jpg)

### [How Does Textured Hair's Structure Influence Its Hydration Needs, and How Did Traditional Botanicals Address This?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-textured-hairs-structure-influence-its-hydration-needs-and-how-did-traditional-botanicals-address-this/)
![The monochrome portrait celebrates the beauty of natural, type 4 hair, emphasizing its intricate texture and halo-like volume. The play of light and shadow accentuates the woman’s serene expression, promoting self-acceptance and appreciation for diverse African ancestral heritage.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-a-woman-with-voluminous-afro-textured-hair-and-gentle.jpg)

### [Can Ancient Hair Oiling Techniques Address Modern Moisture Needs in Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/can-ancient-hair-oiling-techniques-address-modern-moisture-needs-in-textured-hair/)
![Women braid textured hair, passing down ancestral techniques in a scene celebrating Black hair traditions. This practice demonstrates deep commitment to heritage while emphasizing beauty, self-expression, and the significance of communal support for holistic hair wellness.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/women-braiding-textured-hair-cultural-exchange-and-hair-care-practices.jpg)

### [How Did Ancestral Practices Address Textured Hair's Porosity?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-ancestral-practices-address-textured-hairs-porosity/)
![The application of an avocado mask embodies a holistic approach to textured hair health, celebrating ancestral practices and emphasizing the importance of moisture retention and scalp health for optimal coil definition and resilience, reflecting a commitment to natural wellness.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-applies-natural-avocado-hair-mask-for-textured-hair-wellness.jpg)

### [How Do Ancestral Hair Care Practices Address Moisture in Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/how-do-ancestral-hair-care-practices-address-moisture-in-textured-hair/)
![Through focused hands shaping hair, artistry unfolds, preserving Black haircare heritage. This intimate moment reveals beauty standards while honoring ancestral methods and providing versatile styling options to promote scalp health and celebrate community through intricate woven patterns and design.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/intricate-braiding-process-showcases-textured-hair-artistry-and-cultural.jpg)

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            "name": "How does the CROWN Act address systemic hair discrimination?",
            "acceptedAnswer": {
                "@type": "Answer",
                "text": "\nThe Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair, or CROWN Act, emerged from a coalition of advocates recognizing that existing civil rights legislation often overlooked hair-based discrimination because it focused primarily on immutable racial characteristics. Since its initial passage in California in 2019, the CROWN Act has spread across numerous states, explicitly prohibiting discrimination based on hair texture and protective styles, which include locs, braids, twists, and Afros. These laws are a crucial legal intervention, acknowledging that policies penalizing such hairstyles constitute a form of racial discrimination.\n"
            }
        }
    ]
}
```

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            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/black-students/",
            "name": "Black Students",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/black-students/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Black Students, within the specialized sphere of textured hair understanding, stand as a pivotal demographic guiding their personal hair pathways within the landscape of their scholastic endeavors."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/eurocentric-beauty/",
            "name": "Eurocentric Beauty",
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            "description": "Meaning ❉ Eurocentric Beauty describes an aesthetic framework that historically positions features and hair textures common in European populations as the prevailing ideal."
        },
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            "@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-laws/",
            "name": "Hair Heritage Laws",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-heritage-laws/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The term 'Hair Heritage Laws' refers to the foundational, often unspoken, principles guiding the care and understanding of Black and mixed-race textured hair."
        },
        {
            "@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/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-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/schools/",
            "name": "Schools",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/schools/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Schools refer to distinct frameworks of understanding and practice concerning textured hair."
        },
        {
            "@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/heritage-laws/",
            "name": "Heritage Laws",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/heritage-laws/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Heritage Laws denote the intrinsic principles that guide the unique behavior of textured hair, stemming from its distinct genetic blueprint and generations of observational understanding."
        },
        {
            "@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/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/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/racial-bias-in-schools/",
            "name": "Racial Bias in Schools",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/racial-bias-in-schools/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Racial Bias in Schools identifies the quiet, often unseen, institutional inclinations within learning environments that place students at a disadvantage based on their racial identity, particularly impacting those with textured hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/missionary-schools/",
            "name": "Missionary Schools",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/missionary-schools/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Missionary Schools, within the delicate landscape of textured hair understanding, points to historical educational settings."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/discrimination-laws/",
            "name": "Discrimination Laws",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/discrimination-laws/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Discrimination Laws, within the landscape of textured hair understanding, are legislative frameworks designed to safeguard individuals from unfair treatment based on their natural hair textures, protective styles, or hair type characteristics, particularly those associated with Black and mixed-race heritage."
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        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-hair/",
            "name": "Cultural Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Cultural Hair softly reveals the accumulated wisdom and precise care tenets that stem from the distinct biophysical attributes of textured hair, especially the graceful coils and unique kinks often present within Black and mixed-race heritages."
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        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/residential-schools/",
            "name": "Residential Schools",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/residential-schools/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Residential Schools represent a historical period where Indigenous children, including those with textured hair, were often separated from their families and communities, leading to a significant interruption of traditional knowledge transfer concerning Black and mixed-race hair care."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
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            "description": "Meaning ❉ Anti-Discrimination Laws, within the delicate ecosystem of textured hair understanding, serve as a foundational bulwark, establishing a legal framework designed to safeguard individuals of Black and mixed heritage from unfair treatment based on their hair's natural patterns or protective styles."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
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            "name": "Historical Discrimination",
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        }
    ]
}
```


---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-discrimination-do-hair-heritage-laws-address-in-schools/
