Can I Be Discriminated Against for My Hair?

For many, hair is more than a fashion choice – it expresses culture, identity, and heritage. And, particularly in Black communities, wearing natural or protective styles such as braids, locs, or afros can be a source of pride. Unfortunately, workplace bias against these types of hairstyles is a persistent form of discrimination that many Atlanta workers face, often due to outdated and biased grooming standards.

People wearing natural or culturally significant hairstyles may be subjected to unfair scrutiny, criticized as “unprofessional,” or even face hiring, promotion, or retention challenges based on bias. These biases, often rooted in racial stereotypes, create a harmful culture where some employees may feel pressured to alter their natural hair simply to be accepted at work.

Hair discrimination can seriously affect those who feel that they must suppress their personal expression or cultural identity in professional settings in order to satisfy their employer. Without specific protections, you could risk discrimination based on something as personal as your hairstyle.

What is the CROWN Act?

The CROWN Act (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair) was introduced to address this issue, defining hair-based discrimination as a form of racial discrimination. Initially passed in California in 2019, 27 states have since adopted the act to protect individuals from discrimination based on hair texture and styles like locs, twists, and braids. In the past, federal anti-discrimination laws have focused more broadly on race, gender, and other categories without addressing the cultural significance of natural and protective hairstyles.

Per the ACLU, “Statewide legislation has not yet passed in Georgia but has been enacted locally in Atlanta Public Schools, Gwinnett and Clayton counties, and the cities of East Point, South Fulton, and Stockbridge.”

How our Atlanta employment lawyers can help

If you’ve experienced hair discrimination in the workplace, consider consulting with the employment law attorneys at Buckley Bala Wilson Mew. Here’s how we can help:

• Proving discrimination, especially hair-based discrimination, can be complicated. We can assess the details of your experience to determine if there’s a legal basis for your discrimination claim.
• Because Georgia currently lacks state-level protections against hair discrimination, federal anti-discrimination laws may be your best resource. However, we can identify and apply any local laws or company policies that may support your case, advocating on your behalf.
• If you’re still employed, we can help you communicate with your employer or HR department regarding your rights. We can also assist in filing formal complaints or requesting reasonable accommodations if you face ongoing discrimination.
• We can also represent you in court if your case escalates. We can help you file a discrimination claim, gather evidence, and build a strong argument to support your case.

Why the CROWN Act is so important

Workplaces can and should embrace diversity and various perspectives, talents, and creative approaches to problem-solving. Atlanta employers should create policies that promote inclusivity, especially regarding dress and grooming standards. Remember, hair discrimination has real and lasting impacts. It affects the individual, their sense of belonging, and their professional potential. The CROWN Act’s protections help affirm that your expression – whether through your hair or other personal choices – deserves respect.

If you believe you’ve been discriminated against in your Georgia workplace due to your natural or protective hairstyle, you’re not alone, and there are steps you can take. Document any discriminatory actions or remarks, report any incidents to your HR department, and consult with the employment attorneys at Buckley Bala Wilson Mew. We can help hold your employer accountable and assert your rights under the law.

Discrimination based on hair is a form of bias that can harm an individual’s professional future and self-esteem. Have you experienced hair discrimination? Reach out to the Atlanta hair discrimination attorneys at Buckley Bala Wilson Mew. We can help you stand up for your rights and make a difference. Call or fill out our contact form to schedule a confidential consultation today.