Ohio Lawmakers Push to End Discrimination Against Protective Hairstyles in Schools
Legislation introduced in the Ohio House would ban discrimination in schools against students who wear their hair in braids, locs, or twists, styles often targeted despite being natural and culturally significant.
House Bill 418, known as the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act, is sponsored by Rep. Juanita Brent (D–Cleveland) and Rep. Jamie Callender (R–Lake County).
If passed, the bill would prohibit public schools, charter schools, and public preschools from discriminating against students for traits associated with race, including hair texture and protective styles. Students who face discrimination would also be able to sue in court.
Brent noted that protective hairstyles like locs, braids, and twists not only look neat but are less damaging than chemical or heat-based straightening. Yet, she said, bias against these natural styles is still “very alive and well” in Ohio.
This is Brent’s fourth attempt to pass the CROWN Act. A previous version cleared the House but died in the Senate. Earlier versions were broader, covering private schools, employment, housing, and public accommodations. Brent said she hopes the narrower focus on schools this session will help it succeed.
With more than 20 states, including some more conservative than Ohio, having already enacted similar or stronger laws, supporters say it is time for Ohio to act.
Every child has the right to wear their hair in a way that respects their natural identity. No student should face discrimination in school because of their race or hair. Protecting a child’s right to self-expression is protecting their dignity.
