RYDAL, PA - NOVEMBER 08: Democratic Gubernatorial candidate Josh Shapiro addresses the media after casting his ballot at the Rydal Elementary School West polling location on November 8, 2022 in Rydal, Pennsylvania. Shapiro faces Republican Gubernatorial candidate Doug Mastriano in today's midterm general election. (Photo by Mark Makela/Getty Images)
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has taken significant steps to eliminate hair discrimination in the state by signing the CROWN Act into law. This legislation expands protections under Pennsylvania’s existing Human Relations Act to include “hair texture” and “protective hairstyles” closely associated with race. The new law makes it illegal to discriminate against individuals based on their hairstyles in educational and workplace settings, akin to prohibitions against discrimination based on skin color.
During a signing ceremony held in Philadelphia, Shapiro emphasized the long-standing issues faced by many Pennsylvanians regarding hair discrimination. “For too long, many Pennsylvanians have faced discrimination simply for hairstyles that reflect their identity and culture. That ends today,” he stated on November 25, 2025. He highlighted that Black residents, in particular, have often encountered challenges related to their natural hairstyles, which include locks, braids, and twists.
Shapiro elaborated on the impact of such discrimination, noting that it can lead to unfair job losses or being overlooked for promotions due to one’s appearance. “Look, we know that this is an issue which disproportionately affects Black Pennsylvanians who wear their hair in protective styles. That’s unacceptable, and in a moment, it will be illegal,” he said.
The CROWN Act is not unique to Pennsylvania. It was first introduced in California, where it was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2019. Since then, several other states have enacted similar legislation, including New York, New Jersey, Texas, and Michigan. This growing movement reflects a broader recognition of the need for cultural sensitivity and respect in the workplace and beyond.
The signing of the CROWN Act marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing fight against discrimination based on personal appearance. Advocates for the legislation see it as a crucial step toward fostering a more inclusive society, where individuals can express their cultural identity without fear of repercussion.
As more states adopt similar laws, the conversation around hair discrimination is likely to continue evolving, influencing both workplace policies and societal attitudes on a national scale. With this new law, Pennsylvania joins the ranks of states committed to ensuring that all residents can embrace their natural hair without facing discrimination.
