A Texas judge has delivered a verdict siding with a school district in a contentious case involving a Black high school student who faced disciplinary action for refusing to alter his hairstyle. The ruling, issued on Thursday, determined that the punishment imposed on the student does not violate the state’s CROWN Act, which prohibits race-based hair discrimination.
The student in question, Darryl George, 18, has been subjected to a ban from regular classes at Barbers Hill High School in Mont Belvieu since August 31, 2023. Instead, he has been relegated to in-school suspension and an off-site disciplinary program. The school district cited the length of George’s dreadlocks as a violation of its dress and grooming code, despite the fact that his dreadlocks are braided and wrapped atop his head.
The CROWN Act, officially known as the “Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair” Act, was passed with bipartisan support in the Texas legislature and signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott last May. This legislation aims to combat discrimination based on natural hairstyles, particularly within educational and professional settings.
Despite the enactment of the CROWN Act, George’s case underscores ongoing challenges in addressing and rectifying instances of hair discrimination. While activists continue to advocate for the protection of individuals’ right to wear natural hairstyles free from prejudice, this ruling highlights the complexities and limitations of existing legal protections.
The outcome of this case is likely to spark further debate and scrutiny regarding the enforcement and effectiveness of anti-discrimination laws, particularly in educational institutions. As the fight against hair discrimination persists, it remains imperative for stakeholders to prioritize equity and inclusivity in all aspects of society.