Designates July 3 of each year as "CROWN Act Day" in NJ.
Impact
The resolution highlights the ongoing issues of hair discrimination faced by African-American women, men, and children in both workplaces and educational settings. Data supported by studies, including those from the JOY Collective, points to alarming trends: African-American women are disproportionately affected by appearance-based discrimination, with many feeling compelled to alter their natural hair to conform to societal norms. By designating a day to raise awareness, the resolution aims to facilitate discussions and educate the public on these disparities and foster a more inclusive environment.
Summary
AJR147 is a Joint Resolution introduced in New Jersey that designates July 3 of each year as 'CROWN Act Day.' The intent of this designation is to commemorate the passage of the CROWN Act, which prohibits racial discrimination against individuals based on their hair and grooming styles, particularly affecting African-American communities. The CROWN Act aims to eradicate discriminatory practices that impact the employment and educational opportunities of individuals with natural hairstyles.
Contention
While the CROWN Act has already been enacted into law in New Jersey, the calling of a specific day for its recognition speaks to the continued need for awareness and advocacy against hair discrimination. The resolution recognizes both the historical and ongoing challenges faced by individuals due to grooming policies that can often unfairly target those with natural hairstyles. The establishment of a CROWN Act Day not only honors past achievements but also calls for further support and attention to the harmful impacts of race-based grooming policies.
A resolution recognizing that it is the duty of the Federal Government to develop and implement a Transgender Bill of Rights to protect and codify the rights of transgender and nonbinary people under the law and ensure their access to medical care, shelter, safety, and economic security.