Resources

Effective January 1, 2023, the Create a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act will expand protections against race-based hair discrimination through an amendment to the Illinois Human Rights Act.  This means that in situations regarding employment, schools, housing, and more, individuals will have legal protection against race-based bans and requirements for hairstyles.  Such bans have disproportionately affected Black individuals as these bans often discriminate against Black hair textures and protective styles, including braids, locks, and twists.  In this step toward equity, Governor Pritzker commits to “protecting our Black residents’ right to style their hair however they choose.”  See News Release from Governor’s Office.  For the amended language that constitutes the CROWN Act see Illinois General Assembly, Bill Status of SB3477.