.png)
CROWN Act in Kansas & Missouri
Hair Discrimination
​
There are highly publicized cases of discrimination based on hairstyles in the workplace and schools. Talyn Jefferson, a former member of the Ottawa University cheerleading team, was kicked off of the squad due to hair discrimination. This is just one example of the vulnerability Black women face when it comes to the acceptance of our natural hair.
​
Unfortunately, cases like these are not rare and under current Kansas and Missouri state laws, this form of discrimination is legal - but Shirley’s KC is building a coalition to address this inequity in our region.
​
Shirley's KC is joining Leaders like Representative Ashley Bland-Manlove, D-Kansas City, Representative LaKeySha Bosley, D-St. Louis, Senator Barbara Anne Washington, D-Kansas City and Senator Oletha Faust-Goudeau, D-Wichita have each introduced legislation to protect individual rights and to prohibit discrimination against hairstyles based on race. View our toolkit for the next steps on how you can support.
​
Black women leaders in our region were instrumental in our work toward the successful and UNANIMOUS passage of the CROWN act in Kansas City, Missouri in the winter of 2020. The city is only the second municipality to pass it.
The CROWN Act
​
The bills presented by legislators in Kansas and Missouri mirror legislative measures passed in California, New York and New Jersey called the “Creating a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural hair,”or (CROWN) Act.
​
Shirley’s KC is working to build a coalition of supporting organizations and individuals to advocate for protections that the CROWN Act will bring to Black people across both states. We need you and your organization to stand with us as we fight to protect against discrimination.
​
You can view the CROWN Research Study here.
​
.png)
Tell Your Story
Share your story and experience with hair discrimination. You can give testimony to legislators, share your story in the news or share your story with others who may have the same experience.
​
Join the Coalition
Are you a salon or barber shop owner? A community leader? A business owner? Are you a part of an organization that wants to take a stand? Join our coalition of organizations and leaders who support the CROWN Act.
Lend a Hand
Many hands make light work. And we need all hands on deck. Volunteers will play a key role in making sure the CROWN Act passes.
Step in & Support
If you have other ideas about how you can support our efforts and support Black women, reach out to us!
