Speak Up: Law protecting hairstyles from discrimination praised

Upon hearing that Gov. John Carney had signed into law Senate Bill 32, which includes protections for individuals from discrimination regarding hairstyles, Delaware Department of Labor Senior Administrator Sherese Brewington-Carr was full of joy. “As a Black woman who has worn her hair naturally for years, this is historical,” said Ms. Brewington-Carr. “Your hairstyle is perfect and proud, your crown and glory, and should not divert from your skill level or professional aspect ... and should not be regarded any more differently than anyone else.” The bill became law April 13. For many First State communities of color, the ratification of the law, also known as the CROWN (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair) Act, marks a momentous passage, as it reflects the pride embodied within their natural and styled hair, including braids, curls, kinks, locks, texture and twists — and the strive to make any discriminatory actions against this initiative intolerable.

• Weaves are “natural”? — Steve Durnan

• As natural as perms. And White people get them all the time. — Holly Overmyer

• I am a licensed cosmetologist, and yes, I strongly support CROWN laws. Hair to a lot of people is sacred how they wear it. Fire is the only thing, outside of prejudice, that can destroy hair. — Crystal Hamilton

• It is too bad we have to legislate kind consideration, but I’m glad. At least we are doing that small part. — Tamala Jones

• The government chooses to do this because they don’t actually support anyone. Virtue signaling. — Beth Gallagher

• I’ve never heard of anyone being discriminated against because of their hair. — Shawn McGrath

• Our tax money at work, when there are real problems they won’t address. Let criminals go, cheat at elections, but hairstyle we can take care of. — William Jamar

• A lot of police and correctional departments discriminate on hairstyles in Delaware. — Ruth Hamilton