The CROWN Act has officially become law. Sponsored by New Orleans representative Candace Newell, the law prohibits intentional discrimination based on hairstyles, particularly those that are natural or protective. Newell says this sends a strong message.
“Just being who God created you and you decided to wear your hair in protective style has nothing to do with your ability to do a job, with your ability to learn, it doesn’t diminish your character,” said Newell.
Research has shown that 80% of Black women have endured some type of discrimination based on their hair in the workplace.
Similar measures had failed in previous years, including one by current US Congressman Troy Carter. Carter passed a national version in the US House, but it has stalled in the Senate. Newell says she was glad to take the baton and place Louisiana at the forefront of positive change.
“It just moves Louisiana forward, we are the first Southern state to have to this type of legislation statewide,” said Newell.
Newell said she had to have some hard, and in some cases painful, discussions with colleagues as she met with every member of the House to gain support for her bill.
“I was frustrated, I was offended, but for those who were willing to listen to me, it made the conversations better, we were able to have candid conversations and now Louisiana is finally at the forefront of something,” said Newell.
She says for Louisiana to reach its potential those conversations will have to continue.
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