New Illinois Law Prohibits Discrimination of Ethnic Hairstyles in Schools

PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — Peoria stylist Adrienne Jones said ethnic hairstyles like braids, locks, twists, and afros are a form of self-expression for Black Americans. “It represents who we are. In essence, it’s who we are as a people,” said Jones, who owns A Sharp Effect Salon in Peoria.

And as of Jan. 1, the CROWN (Create a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair) Act prohibits Illinois schools from discriminating against students with those hairstyles. Read more.