# What Historical Events Led to Textured Hair Discrimination and Subsequent Legislation? ❉ Question

**Published:** 2025-06-11
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Question

---

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![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)

## Roots

The story of textured hair, particularly within Black and mixed-race communities, holds within its very strands a vibrant chronicle of resilience, identity, and profound connection to ancestry. It is a story not merely observed from a distance, but one that lives within the intimate rituals of care, the quiet confidence of adornment, and the deep-seated understanding of self. Yet, this heritage, rich with meaning, has long been subjected to a historical current of suppression and prejudice, leading to specific, painful forms of discrimination. The path to understanding these events and the resulting legal efforts demands a patient, discerning gaze, one that traces the deliberate imposition of alien [beauty standards](/area/beauty-standards/) onto a legacy that is inherently beautiful and sovereign. 

Consider the weight carried by each coil, each curl, each loc. This is not simply a biological marvel; it is a living archive, a continuous thread extending from ancient African civilizations where hair communicated volumes about a person’s standing, their lineage, their very purpose within the communal fabric. From the intricate artistry of West African braiding traditions that spoke of wealth, marital status, or tribal affiliation, to the spiritual significance of hair as a conduit to the divine, pre-colonial African societies understood hair as a visual language, a profound marker of identity. This deep heritage set the stage for a clash when colonial forces, driven by narratives of supposed “civilizing missions,” encountered this rich cultural tapestry. 

> Hair, in its textured forms, carries a profound heritage, serving as a silent witness to centuries of identity, resistance, and the enduring spirit of communities across the diaspora.

![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)

## Foundations of Disregard

The origins of [textured hair discrimination](/area/textured-hair-discrimination/) are inextricably linked to the transatlantic slave trade, a period that violently severed millions from their ancestral lands and traditions. Upon arrival in the “New World,” enslaved Africans faced systematic dehumanization, and a key element of this brutal process involved the deliberate assault on their cultural identity, including their hair. Slave traders often shaved the heads of captives, ostensibly for hygiene, but crucially, as a method to strip away their cultural markers, their sense of belonging, and their connection to their heritage. This act of shaving became a stark symbol of forced assimilation, an attempt to erase the living history coiled within each strand. 

European colonizers, viewing Afro-textured hair as closer to animal fur or wool than human hair, weaponized this classification to justify enslavement and exploitation. This insidious comparison, often perceived as harmless by some, deeply entrenched racist ideologies, serving as a foundation for dehumanization. The very term “dreadlocks” itself, as some narratives suggest, might stem from slave traders’ descriptions of naturally matted African hair as “dreadful” during the traumatic Middle Passage. 

![Sunlight catches the halo of textured hair as a mother gently tends to her mixed-race child’s hair this nurturing act honors ancestral heritage and a commitment to the specialized care routines vital for strong, healthy, type 3C/4A curl formation, reflecting deep cultural and familial connection.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/mother-combing-natural-textured-hair-of-mixed-race-child-outdoors-sunlight.jpg)

## Post-Slavery Pressure to Conform

Even after the abolition of slavery, derogatory attitudes toward natural [Black hair](/area/black-hair/) persisted, woven into the societal fabric of the Reconstruction and Jim Crow eras. Global definitions of beauty became firmly anchored in Eurocentric ideals, associating straight hair with “civility” and “respectability”. This created immense pressure for Black individuals to alter their hair to mimic European textures, a requirement for social and economic advancement. The rise of hair straightening techniques, utilizing hot combs and harsh chemicals, became a widespread, albeit often painful, response to this societal demand.

Trailblazers like Madam C.J. Walker, while building empires, inadvertently reinforced these standards through their products aimed at achieving Eurocentric hair ideals. This period saw the normalization of hair as a barrier to opportunity, where [natural hair](/area/natural-hair/) was deemed “unprofessional” or “unkempt”.

- **Head shaving** ❉ A tactic used during the transatlantic slave trade to strip enslaved Africans of their cultural identity and connection to ancestry.

- **“Wool” comparisons** ❉ European colonizers likened Afro-textured hair to animal fur or wool, a dehumanizing comparison used to justify their systems of oppression.

- **Tignon Laws** ❉ Enacted in 1786 in Louisiana, these laws forced free Black women to cover their elaborately styled hair with a headscarf, a deliberate attempt to assert social hierarchy and curb their perceived attractiveness to white men.
The [Tignon Laws](/area/tignon-laws/) of 1786 in Louisiana provide a stark, early legal example of this historical prejudice. Free [Black women](/area/black-women/) in the state were known for their elaborate hairstyles, which drew the attention of white men, challenging the established racial hierarchy. In response, Governor Esteban Rodríguez Miró mandated that Black women, free or enslaved, cover their hair with a tignon, a headscarf.

This law served a dual purpose: it visually marked free Black women as closer to enslaved women, and it supposedly prevented them from “enticing” white men. Yet, in a testament to enduring spirit, Black women transformed these mandates, adorning their tignons with vibrant fabrics and creative styles, asserting a new cultural movement even under duress.

![This monochrome portrait captures the graceful profile of a woman, her sleek, slicked-back type 3 coily hair artfully coiled into a low bun. The striking composition celebrates her heritage by blending her hair into timeless beauty through modern styling and highlighting holistic hair traditions and the mixed-race hair narrative](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-portrait-of-woman-with-sleek-bun-and-taut-hairline.jpg)

![This black and white portrait illustrates the ancestral practice of textured hair care, a mother nurturing her child](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/mother-combing-childs-textured-hair-at-window-black-and-white-portrait.jpg)

## Ritual

The intimate rituals of [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) care and styling have always been deeply intertwined with the prevailing social currents, often becoming battlegrounds for identity and acceptance. As the foundational biases against natural hair solidified over centuries, these practices evolved, becoming powerful statements of survival, adaptation, and defiance. The journey from ancestral hair dressing as a communal bond to modern hair care as an act of self-acceptance speaks volumes about the persistent external pressures on Black and mixed-race communities. 

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

## The Impact of Assimilation and “Acceptable” Presentation

Following the formal end of slavery, the systemic discrimination against natural hair shifted from overt control to a more insidious, pervasive social pressure. Black individuals faced strong expectations to conform to [Eurocentric beauty standards](/area/eurocentric-beauty-standards/) to attain social mobility and employment. This created a culture where straightened hair became synonymous with professionalism and respectability, framing natural textures as unprofessional, unkempt, or even unclean. This societal conditioning meant that many Black women and men felt compelled to chemically alter their hair, enduring often damaging processes, to navigate workplaces and public spaces. 

[Grooming policies](/area/grooming-policies/) in schools and workplaces, seemingly neutral on the surface, became potent instruments of racial discrimination. These policies disproportionately targeted styles intrinsic to Black culture ❉ afros, braids, locs, twists ❉ by classifying them as inappropriate or distracting. The implication was clear: to participate fully in mainstream society, one had to suppress visible markers of Black identity. This policing of hair became a pervasive reality, from children being disciplined or sent home from school for their [natural styles](/area/natural-styles/) to adults facing job loss or denied opportunities. 

> The choice of a hairstyle became an unexpected political statement, a quiet act of defiance against a world intent on policing the very essence of Black identity.

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

## Ancestral Echoes Amidst Modern Demands

Despite these pressures, the intrinsic value of textured hair and the ancestral wisdom surrounding its care never fully faded. Even as chemical relaxers gained popularity, traditional styling techniques, often with roots stretching back to Africa, persisted as essential protective measures and expressions of self. Cornrows, for instance, were not simply a style; they held historical significance as navigational tools for enslaved people seeking escape, with patterns reportedly acting as maps. This demonstrates how cultural practices, even under extreme duress, maintained a clandestine yet powerful role in preserving heritage. 

The early to mid-20th century saw the growth of industries dedicated to straightening Black hair, making self-made Black millionaires like Madam C.J. Walker, but this also highlighted the pervasive societal demand for assimilation. Yet, within communities, a quiet preservation of knowledge endured, passed down through generations.

The understanding of hair’s inherent nature, its fragility, and its need for specialized care ❉ often involving natural ingredients and gentle techniques ❉ remained a cherished, communal truth. This traditional knowledge stood in quiet opposition to the prevailing beauty standards that encouraged harsh chemical treatments.

- **Hot combs and chemical relaxers** ❉ Tools and substances employed to achieve straight hair textures, becoming widespread during periods of strong assimilation pressure.

- **“The Comb Test” and “The Pencil Test”** ❉ Informal yet impactful discriminatory practices used in the US and during Apartheid in South Africa to deny Black individuals access or classify their race based on hair texture.

- **Workplace grooming policies** ❉ Seemingly neutral rules that disproportionately affected Black individuals by banning or discouraging natural and protective hairstyles.
A poignant historical example, “The Pencil Test” used during South African Apartheid, serves as a stark illustration of this hair-based racial classification. If a pencil, placed in a person’s hair, remained in place when they shook their head, they were classified as Black, facing segregation and denial of privileges. If it fell, they might be classified as white, accessing different opportunities. This test, while a brutal tool of social engineering, underscores the profound link between [hair texture](/area/hair-texture/) and racial identity, and how dominant powers manipulated this link to maintain oppressive social structures. 

![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)

![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)

## Relay

The fight against textured [hair discrimination](/area/hair-discrimination/) gained formal momentum in the latter half of the 20th century, particularly as [civil rights](/area/civil-rights/) movements spurred a wider recognition of systemic inequities. The legal journey to protect natural hair has been long and complex, challenged by interpretations of existing anti-discrimination laws and the persistent, often unspoken, biases rooted in centuries of conditioning. This relay of activism and legislative efforts continues to shape the future of textured hair heritage. 

![This dramatic portrait celebrates Black hair traditions through its majestic braided crown, a testament to ancestral heritage and expressive styling. The interplay of light and shadow accentuates the texture and artistry of the braids, honoring the woman’s strength and the enduring legacy of Black beauty](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-black-and-white-portrait-of-woman-with-elaborate-braided-hairstyle.jpg)

## The Rise of Resistance and Legal Challenge

The 1960s marked a pivotal moment, with the Black Power movement declaring “Black is beautiful”. This cultural assertion inspired a widespread return to natural hairstyles, with the Afro becoming a powerful symbol of racial pride, solidarity, and defiance against Eurocentric beauty standards. This deliberate embrace of natural hair was a political statement, a purposeful act of resistance against the degradation of Black hair. The Afro comb, often with a clenched fist handle, became a symbol of this reclaiming of Black identity. 

As natural styles gained visibility, they also drew increased scrutiny from institutions. Hair regulations and dress codes in schools, workplaces, and even the military, became battlegrounds. Early legal challenges to hair discrimination in the United States surfaced in the 1970s.

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibited employment discrimination based on race, but its application to hair texture was open to interpretation. Courts often struggled with the argument that hair texture, while culturally linked to race, was not an “immutable characteristic” like skin color, thus allowing a loophole for discriminatory practices.

![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)

## Landmark Cases and Shifting Legal Landscape

One of the earliest cases, <i>Jenkins v. Blue Cross Mutual Hospital Insurance_ (1976), saw the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit uphold a race discrimination lawsuit against an employer for bias against afros, acknowledging a worker’s right to wear afros under Title VII. However, this legal victory did not eliminate the underlying societal pressures.

Subsequent cases often faced setbacks. For instance, the 2013 case of EEOC v. Catastrophe Management Solutions, involving Chastity Jones, who had a job offer rescinded for refusing to cut her locs, highlighted the limitations of existing law. The court concluded that locs were “changeable,” not immutable, weakening the claim of intentional race discrimination, despite their cultural link to Black identity. This demonstrated a persistent legal gap, where [racial discrimination](/area/racial-discrimination/) could persist under the guise of “race-neutral” grooming policies.

The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund (LDF) has long recognized natural hair discrimination as a form of racism, advocating through litigation and public awareness. Research has continuously supported the pervasive nature of this discrimination. A 2023 study found that Black women’s hair is 2.5 times as likely to be perceived as “unprofessional”.

This same study noted that two-thirds (66%) of Black women adjust their hair for job interviews, with 41% altering curly hair to straight. These data points underscore the ongoing pressure to conform, even in contemporary society.

_## The CROWN Act and Its Impact

The most significant legislative advancement against hair discrimination in recent times is the CROWN Act, an acronym for “Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair”. This legislation seeks to explicitly ban discrimination based on hair texture and protective hairstyles associated with race, such as locs, cornrows, twists, braids, and Afros. Its purpose extends beyond mere styling preferences; it aims to eliminate barriers to employment, educational opportunities, and public accommodations stemming from hair bias. 

California led the way, passing the [CROWN Act](/area/crown-act/) into law in July 2019, with the legislation becoming effective in January 2020. New York and New Jersey swiftly followed. As of July 2024, 25 states have enacted CROWN Act legislation, and efforts continue to pass similar laws at both state and federal levels. The federal CROWN Act has passed the House of Representatives in 2020 and 2022, though it has faced obstacles in the Senate. 

> The CROWN Act stands as a testament to the ongoing struggle for recognition, aiming to codify respect for textured hair as a fundamental aspect of racial identity.
The CROWN Act addresses a critical loophole in prior anti-discrimination laws. While the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protected against race-based discrimination, it did not explicitly protect phenotypical markers of race like hair texture, allowing for interpretations that enabled discriminatory practices. The CROWN Act directly expands the definition of “race” to include such traits, providing stronger safeguards for workers and students. 

Despite this legislative progress, challenges persist. Some interpretations of the CROWN Act, such as in Texas, have faced judicial setbacks regarding hair length, highlighting the need for comprehensive and unambiguous language in future legislation. Furthermore, discriminatory attitudes remain prevalent in society. A 2022 study revealed that 93% of Black individuals in the UK have experienced microaggressions related to their Afro hair, with schools and workplaces being common sites.

These microaggressions, coupled with underlying biases, continue to cause emotional and psychological distress, impacting self-esteem and mental health. The Association of Black Psychologists describes hair discrimination as an “esthetic trauma,” emphasizing its dire mental health effects.

The ongoing fight for the CROWN Act, and for broader societal acceptance, represents a deep commitment to affirming the inherent beauty and cultural significance of textured hair. It is a pursuit of equity that acknowledges the profound connection between hair, heritage, and the full expression of self. 

![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](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-preparing-ancestral-textured-hair-remedies-underneath-a-sprawling-tree.jpg)

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

## Reflection

The journey through the historical landscape of textured hair discrimination reveals a saga of enduring spirit, a testament to the unyielding power of heritage. From the deliberate acts of erasure during enslavement to the insidious policing of natural styles in modern institutions, the textured strand has stood as both a target and a symbol of resistance. This exploration underscores a profound truth: textured hair is not merely a biological characteristic; it is a living document, a silent chronicle of ancestral journeys, cultural adaptations, and unwavering defiance. 

In the quiet wisdom of Roothea’s Soul of a Strand, we discern that the story of discrimination is not simply a record of injustice, but a powerful affirmation of what was too precious to be broken. It points us to the deep-seated value inherent in every coil and curl, a value that colonizers and oppressive systems sought to diminish precisely because of its potency as a cultural anchor. The resilience of Black and mixed-race communities, their continued celebration of natural hair, and the legislative victories like the CROWN Act, stand as luminous markers on this path.

They speak to a collective awakening, a global embrace of intrinsic beauty, and a reclamation of ancestral knowledge that refuses to be silenced. This ongoing narrative reminds us that honoring textured hair is a purposeful act of self-love, a vibrant connection to a heritage that continues to shape identity, inspire artistry, and guide the path toward a future where every helix can unfurl in freedom.

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

![The artist](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-digital-artist-focused-curly-textured-hair-drawing-on-tablet.jpg)

## References

- Adeyemi, T. (2020). <i>Hair Love: The True Story of Zuri and Her Daring Hair Journey_. Penguin Young Readers.

- De Leon, A. & Chikwendu, K. (2019). _World Afro Day Survey: Hair Discrimination in Schools_. World Afro Day.

- Dove, & LinkedIn. (2023). _The 2023 Dove Workplace Research Study_.

- Essien, P. A. (2018). _The Legacy of the Afro: Hair, Identity, and Politics in the African Diaspora_. Palgrave Macmillan.

- Hooks, B. (1995). _Art, Bell Hooks: Black Looks: Race and Representation_. South End Press.

- Tharps, L. M. & Byrd, A. (2001). _Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America_. St. Martin’s Press.

- Walker, A. (1982). _The Color Purple_. Harcourt Brace Jovanovich.

- White, C. (2010). _African American Hair: A History of Style, Culture, and Resistance_. Routledge.

- Wilkins, M. (2007). _The Natural Hair Handbook: A Guide for Women of Color_. The African-American Heritage Press.

## Glossary

### [Beauty Standards](https://roothea.co/area/beauty-standards/)

Meaning ❉ Beauty Standards often describe societal ideals dictating what is considered appealing, particularly concerning appearance.

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

Meaning ❉ Anti-Discrimination Legislation, considered within the gentle realm of textured hair understanding, signifies legal provisions offering protection against unfair treatment based on natural hair textures and protective styles, especially those deeply connected to Black and mixed-race heritage.

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

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

### [Slavery Legislation](https://roothea.co/area/slavery-legislation/)

Meaning ❉ Slavery legislation refers to the codified legal frameworks historically imposed to define, control, and perpetuate the institution of human bondage, significantly shaping the experience and perception of textured hair within Black and mixed-race communities.

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

Meaning ❉ Hair Care Legislation encompasses the mindful legal frameworks and regulatory measures designed to oversee the production, distribution, and professional application of hair care products and services, with a gentle yet firm focus on the unique needs of textured, Black, and mixed-race hair.

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

Meaning ❉ Ancestral Hair Practices signify the accumulated knowledge and customary techniques passed down through generations within Black and mixed-race communities, specifically concerning the well-being and styling of textured hair.

### [Post-Civil War Legislation](https://roothea.co/area/post-civil-war-legislation/)

Meaning ❉ Post-Civil War Legislation, a pivotal period in American law, significantly influenced the development of textured hair understanding, care systematization, and practical application for Black and mixed-race individuals.

### [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.

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

Meaning ❉ Textured Hair Legislation offers a protective shield, acknowledging the inherent beauty and professional validity of coils, kinks, and waves, especially for individuals of Black and mixed heritage.

### [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.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [How Did Hair Discrimination Impact the Heritage of Black Hair Care?](https://roothea.co/question/how-did-hair-discrimination-impact-the-heritage-of-black-hair-care/)
![This black and white photograph captures the essence of natural afro textured hair, celebrating its springy coil formation and intricate beauty. Emphasizing its coil texture, the portrait embodies strength and confidence, promoting positive self-image and highlighting the importance of ancestral heritage and expressive styling within diverse hair narratives.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-portrait-of-a-woman-with-afro-textured-hair-in-black-and-white.jpg)

### [What Historical Communal Hair Rituals Influence Contemporary Textured Hair Care and Identity?](https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-communal-hair-rituals-influence-contemporary-textured-hair-care-and-identity/)
![This arresting portrait celebrates the inherent beauty of textured hair and personal expression. With tightly coiled Afro texture and elegant features, the woman embodies a fusion of ancestral heritage and contemporary style, inviting us to contemplate identity and the power of self-acceptance through natural coils appreciation.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-a-young-woman-with-tightly-coiled-afro-hair.jpg)

### [Digital Hair Discrimination](https://roothea.co/term/digital-hair-discrimination/)
![The portrait captures a woman embodying both strength and vulnerability through the artistic cage and braided style, creating a powerful statement on identity and heritage. This Afrocentric modern expression celebrates textured hair](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-woman-braided-hair-caged-headpiece-afrocentric-modernity-art.jpg)

### [Can Textured Hair Discrimination Laws Promote Cultural Respect?](https://roothea.co/question/can-textured-hair-discrimination-laws-promote-cultural-respect/)
![The concentrated clay embodies holistic hair care rituals, offering gentle cleansing and mineral nourishment for textured hair strands to promote health and longevity, echoing ancestral practices. Its simple presence honors the connection between earth, heritage, and the vitality of the scalp.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/fine-clay-powder-composition-for-heritage-hair-mask-raw-ingredient.jpg)

### [In What Ways Did Hair Discrimination Influence the Legacy of Textured Hair Care?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-did-hair-discrimination-influence-the-legacy-of-textured-hair-care/)
![The portrait encapsulates the dance between light and shadow, celebrating the unique texture of braided hair. It evokes a sense of ancestral connection, holistic hair care rituals passed down through generations, and the powerful expression of cultural identity inherent in traditional Black hair styling.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/woman-silhouette-against-sunlight-showcasing-braided-textured-hair-in.jpg)

### [Can the CROWN Act Fully Rectify past Hair-Based Discrimination Rooted in Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/can-the-crown-act-fully-rectify-past-hair-based-discrimination-rooted-in-heritage/)
![Spiral braided crown hairstyle, a striking black and white image highlighting the intricate design and texture on the person](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-image-of-crown-braid-hairstyle-on-textured-hair.jpg)

### [How Does Cultural Heritage Intertwine with Natural Hair Legislation?](https://roothea.co/question/how-does-cultural-heritage-intertwine-with-natural-hair-legislation/)
![The basket weaver](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elderly-woman-weaving-basket-with-coiled-hair-crowned-by-wrapped-headcloth.jpg)

### [What Historical Events Led to Legal Protections for Textured Hair Traditions?](https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-events-led-to-legal-protections-for-textured-hair-traditions/)
![Classic beauty radiates from this afro-adorned Black woman in a stark black and white studio setting, honoring heritage. Her composed demeanor and the spotlight on her natural hair texture capture strength, celebrating Black hair traditions and identity through expressive hairstyling.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-black-woman-with-afro-hairstyle-in-studio-portrait-black-and-white.jpg)

### [In What Ways Does Hair Legislation Respond to Ongoing Discrimination against Textured Hair?](https://roothea.co/question/in-what-ways-does-hair-legislation-respond-to-ongoing-discrimination-against-textured-hair/)
![Hands weave intricate patterns into the child](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/protective-styling-daughters-hair-textured-hair-care-and-connection-black.jpg)

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            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/beauty-standards/",
            "name": "Beauty Standards",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/beauty-standards/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Beauty Standards often describe societal ideals dictating what is considered appealing, particularly concerning appearance."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-discrimination/",
            "name": "Textured Hair Discrimination",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-discrimination/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Textured Hair Discrimination gently describes the often-unseen bias or unfavorable treatment individuals experience because of their natural hair’s curl, coil, or wave patterns, particularly affecting those with Black or mixed-race heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair/",
            "name": "Black Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Black Hair describes the spectrum of hair textures primarily found within communities of African heritage, recognized by its distinct curl patterns ❉ from expansive waves to tightly coiled formations ❉ and an often elliptical follicle shape, which fundamentally shapes its unique growth trajectory."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/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/tignon-laws/",
            "name": "Tignon Laws",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/tignon-laws/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The Tignon Laws, enacted in late 18th-century colonial Louisiana, were decrees requiring free and enslaved Black women to cover their hair with a tignon or headscarf when in public spaces."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/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/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/grooming-policies/",
            "name": "Grooming Policies",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/grooming-policies/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Grooming Policies signify the foundational principles that shape hair presentation and upkeep, particularly pertinent within familial traditions, professional environments, or individual routines."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-styles/",
            "name": "Natural Styles",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/natural-styles/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Natural Styles denote hair preparations that honor the inherent curl, coil, or wave pattern of textured hair, particularly for Black and mixed-race individuals."
        },
        {
            "@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/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/civil-rights/",
            "name": "Civil Rights",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/civil-rights/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Civil Rights, within the gentle landscape of textured hair understanding, points to the fundamental freedom and equal access allowing individuals with Black and mixed-race hair to define, care for, and present their unique hair identity without prejudice."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/racial-discrimination/",
            "name": "Racial Discrimination",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/racial-discrimination/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Racial discrimination, when considered through the lens of textured hair, describes the unfair treatment or prejudicial disadvantage experienced by individuals due to their hair's natural form, particularly those with coils, kinks, or waves."
        },
        {
            "@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/anti-discrimination-legislation/",
            "name": "Anti-Discrimination Legislation",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/anti-discrimination-legislation/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Anti-Discrimination Legislation, considered within the gentle realm of textured hair understanding, signifies legal provisions offering protection against unfair treatment based on natural hair textures and protective styles, especially those deeply connected to Black and mixed-race heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/slavery-legislation/",
            "name": "Slavery Legislation",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/slavery-legislation/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Slavery legislation refers to the codified legal frameworks historically imposed to define, control, and perpetuate the institution of human bondage, significantly shaping the experience and perception of textured hair within Black and mixed-race communities."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-care-legislation/",
            "name": "Hair Care Legislation",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-care-legislation/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Care Legislation encompasses the mindful legal frameworks and regulatory measures designed to oversee the production, distribution, and professional application of hair care products and services, with a gentle yet firm focus on the unique needs of textured, Black, and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-hair-practices/",
            "name": "Ancestral Hair Practices",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-hair-practices/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Ancestral Hair Practices signify the accumulated knowledge and customary techniques passed down through generations within Black and mixed-race communities, specifically concerning the well-being and styling of textured hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/post-civil-war-legislation/",
            "name": "Post-Civil War Legislation",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/post-civil-war-legislation/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Post-Civil War Legislation, a pivotal period in American law, significantly influenced the development of textured hair understanding, care systematization, and practical application for Black and mixed-race individuals."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-legislation/",
            "name": "Textured Hair Legislation",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-legislation/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Textured Hair Legislation offers a protective shield, acknowledging the inherent beauty and professional validity of coils, kinks, and waves, especially for individuals of Black and mixed heritage."
        }
    ]
}
```


---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/question/what-historical-events-led-to-textured-hair-discrimination-and-subsequent-legislation/
