Senate Bill 174 was signed into law recently by Gov. Mike Dunleavy. It provides language in state statutes that would prevent discrimination regarding natural hairstyles. The bill would prevent a governing body to adopt a school dress code that would prohibit a student from wearing a natural hairstyle, regardless of hair texture or type. Natural hair includes braids, locs, twists, tight coils, afros, cornrows, and bantu knots. It also would prevent code that prohibits a student from wearing traditional tribal regalia or objecting of cultural significance at a graduation ceremony.
Sen. Elvi-Gray Jackson on social media wrote:
“For far too many, the ability to truly be one’s self is hindered by stereotypes, stigmas, and negative ideologies. SB 174 is not only progress, but it’s a conversation starter for why it’s important that all people truly feel embraced and welcomed within our society.”
Sen. David Wilson, a cosponsor for the legislation told the Senate floor earlier this year:
“Senate Bill 174 prohibits schools and workplaces from enacting dress codes that restricts someone from wearing their natural hair. No employee or student should be prohibited from participating in work or attending school because they are wearing their natural hair, nor should they feel like they are in a petting zoo. People choose to wear their natural for many reasons, including cultural connectiveness, protection of hair, texture, and growth, or just simply the preference. Whatever the reason, no hairstyle has no correlation to workplace performance or professionalism. One study has shown that people of color changed their hair from its natural state just to fit in the office. Another study published in the Social Psychology of Professional Science Journal confirmed the truth that many folks of color have suspected and grappled with today that in job recruitment, natural hairstyles put them at a disadvantage from getting interviewed and subsequently hired.”
Transcribed audio courtesy of KTOO 360TV.
Click here for more on SB 174.