C.R.O.W.N. PROTECTIONS
C.R.O.W.N.- Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair
The inherent beauty of hair representing Pennsylvania’s wealth of cultural and experiential diversity is the driving force behind the proposed CROWN Act.
The legislation, HB 1394, would amend the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to prohibit discrimination based on hair texture or style. Sponsored by state Rep. La’Tasha D. Mayes, of Allegheny County, HB 1394 won approval of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in July and awaits Senate consideration. Read more about the PHRC support of the CROWN Act here.
Nationwide, 23 states have passed their own versions of CROWN Acts, including Pennsylvania's neighbors New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. ationally, the CROWN Act movement is led by Adjoa B. Asamoah, national advisor for Black engagement for the Biden-Harris campaign. CROWN stands for Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair. A bill that passed the U.S. House but is still awaiting Senate consideration would specifically ban race-based discrimination in relation to hair choices.
In August 2023, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) announced new regulations, more clearly explaining the definitions of 'sex,' 'religious creed,' and 'race,' that are now effective in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. PHRC is empowered to investigate complaints of discrimination on the basis of race, which includes: traits associated with race, including hair texture and protective hairstyles. It does not infringe on employers’ rights to implement workplace safety standards.
Under the
Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA), protections are available in employment, housing, commercial property, public accommodations and educational institutions.
Accordion
Expand AllClick here for a more accessible versionMore Information about Hair Discrimination
If you feel you have been the victim of illegal discrimination, file a complaint or report a bias incident. Complainants can call (717) 787-4410, or visit one of our three regional offices.
A dedicated, unbiased PHRC investigator will walk you through the process and help prepare your complaint.
Complainants do not incur any attorney fees during the investigation process from the PHRC. Complainants do have the right to obtain private legal services at their own expense, but this is not required.
Complaints must be filed within 180 days of the alleged act of harm.
Pennsylvania law also protects you from retaliation. This means no one is allowed to take any action against you for filing a complaint, opposing unlawful activity, or helping with an investigation.
Firing a person because of their hairstyle.
Creating company policies requiring employees to alter their hair outside of safety codes.
Creating school policies restricting how students can wear or treat their hair.
Retaliation for filing a complaint or opposing unlawful behavior.