Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro has enacted sweeping civil rights protections in Pennsylvania with the signing of the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act. The law prohibits discrimination based on natural hair textures and protective hairstyles, marking a significant milestone for communities that have long reported bias in workplaces and schools.
Shapiro framed the legislation as a broader commitment to dignity and equality for every resident. He stated that “real freedom means being respected for who you are — no matter what you look like, where you come from, who you love, or who you pray to,” underscoring the core mission behind the new protections.
Josh Shapiro Highlights the Urgent Need for State Intervention
Josh Shapiro emphasized that the law responds to a longstanding and well-documented pattern of discrimination. In 2022 alone, Pennsylvania recorded more than 900 complaints related to race-based hair discrimination. Individuals across the state reported being pressured to alter or cut their hair to retain employment or remain enrolled in educational programs.
Josh Shapiro noted that these incidents disproportionately affect Black Pennsylvanians, whose traditional hairstyles carry deep cultural and historical significance. The CROWN Act ensures that styles such as locs, braids, twists, coils, Bantu knots, Afros, and extensions receive explicit legal protection for the first time in state history.
Josh Shapiro Elevates Voices of Advocacy and Lived Experience
Shapiro collaborated closely with national and state advocates who have fought for years to bring CROWN Act legislation to the forefront. Among those voices is civil rights advocate Adjoa B. Asamoah, who praised the law for acknowledging the realities many families face. She stressed that discriminatory grooming codes have led to suspensions of Black children and the loss of employment opportunities for Black adults.
Josh Shapiro echoed these concerns, pointing to research showing the health risks associated with pressure to chemically alter natural hair, including links to uterine fibroids and certain cancers. He stated that “the cost of conformity is simply too high,” and that Pennsylvania’s updated standards represent a meaningful step toward justice.
Josh Shapiro Responds to National Debate Over Diversity and Inclusion
Josh Shapiro’s signature on the CROWN Act comes during a period of intense national conversation surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion. Federal DEI programs have faced rollback efforts under the current U.S. administration, generating concern among civil rights organizations about the protection of minority communities.
Shapiro pointed out that the federal version of the CROWN Act previously passed the U.S. House of Representatives but stalled in the Senate. He described Pennsylvania’s move as both necessary and timely, ensuring state-level protections remain in place regardless of federal inaction.
Josh Shapiro Urges National Action as Pennsylvania Moves Forward
Shapiro called on national leaders to revisit federal protections that would standardize anti-discrimination rules across the country. He stressed that Pennsylvanians deserve the same safeguards as residents of the 24 states that have already enacted similar measures.
Shapiro emphasized that, while political divisions persist, the core issue remains one of fairness and personal autonomy. He encouraged policymakers nationwide to advance legislation that reflects the country’s diverse cultural identities and lived experiences.
