In 2019, we co-founded the CROWN coalition alongside the National Urban League, Color of Change, and Western Center on Law & Poverty so that Black natural hair would be welcome in workplaces and public schools. This year’s CROWN celebration marked the second anniversary of California’s passage of the CROWN Act – the first law in the nation to prohibit discrimination based on hair style and hair texture – which we proudly helped pass. Over the past two years, 13 other states have signed the CROWN Act or similarly inspired measures into law. But we’re just getting started – and you can join by signing the petition.
CROWN Awards: Join us in Celebrating Black Hair Independence
In the very first CROWN Awards, Dove and the CROWN Coalition honored Black women who are richly contributing to culture, community and the advancement of Black beauty. From entrepreneur and actress Tabitha Brown to immunologist Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, all awardees shared the importance of welcoming textured hair and protective styles, which are often a source of cultural identity in the Black community.
Our hair is a repository of our history, of our hopes, of our dreams and all of our creativity. […] What I want is that all women can feel free in their hair however they choose to wear it.
Michaela Angela Davis, 2021 CROWN Power Award recipient
Every time I DJ my hair is bouncing around. It even looks like it’s dancing. […] However you wear your hair – whether you lay your edges, whether you wear it in an afro or whether you wear your hair in a bun – however you wear it, it is beautiful. So, let’s pass the CROWN.
DJ Sophia Rocks, 2021 CROWN Awards Afterparty DJ
Right now, in thirty-seven states across the United States there are no legal consequences if employers and public schools fire, demote or suspend Black women and girls for their hair. Hair discrimination undermines their access to opportunities and inclusion and can have serious economic consequences for Black women. Black women are 80% more likely to change their natural hair to meet social norms or expectations at work. More needs to be done to make workplaces more welcoming towards and accepting of Black women – whichever style they choose.
But ain’t it all our business to be able to wear our hair and express ourselves, the way we feel in our authentic truth, in just being us? […] We should have the freedom to always be and know that we are enough. Being in business and being your authentic self works.
Tabitha Brown, 2021 CROWN Business Award recipient
The CROWN Act corrects these racial injustices by making hair discrimination illegal. We know that belonging is essential to a healthy work environment and ultimately thriving. Passing the CROWN Act is a strong step in breaking down barriers to feeling respected and ultimately career success for Black women.
The Awards are a cornerstone to our annual CROWN Day – a celebration of Black natural hair in all its lovely textures through a mural created by artist Candice Taylor, virtual discussions and community connections. You can catch up on everything you may have missed from the 2021 CROWN Awards here View CROWN Awards.
Join us in creating a world where Black natural hair is welcome in all spaces. Sign the petition to end discrimination against textured hair and protective styles.
Ending discrimination against Black hair with the CROWN Coalition
CROWN stands for Creating a Respectful and Open World with NO RACISM. Through legislative advocacy and societal change, the CROWN Coalition is advancing efforts to end race-based hair discrimination.
Sign the petition
