Missouri Advances Legislation to Ban Hair Discrimination in Educational Settings

Introduction

The state of Missouri is on the verge of enacting a significant legislative measure aimed at promoting equality and combating discrimination based on hair texture and protective hairstyles. Senate Bill 160, known as the CROWN Act, is currently awaiting the governor’s approval. This bill aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), by fostering inclusive and equitable learning environments.

Overview of the CROWN Act

1. Purpose: To prohibit discrimination against individuals based on hair texture or protective hairstyles in schools and educational programs receiving state funding.
2. Scope: Applies to all state-funded educational institutions across Missouri.
3. Current Status: The bill is on Governor Kehoe’s desk with a deadline for signing by July 14.

Impact on Communities and Alignment with SDGs

The CROWN Act addresses systemic discrimination that disproportionately affects Black women and children, supporting the following SDGs:

• SDG 4 – Quality Education: Ensures that all students can learn in an environment free from discrimination, enhancing educational access and equity.
• SDG 5 – Gender Equality: Empowers Black women and girls by affirming their right to express their natural hair without prejudice.
• SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities: Targets social and institutional biases that contribute to unequal treatment based on cultural and racial identity.

Research and Community Perspectives

• Research Findings: According to the CROWN Research Study, Black women are 1.5 times more likely to be sent home from work or school and 3.4 times more likely to be perceived as unprofessional due to their hair.
• Local Leadership: Kansas City pioneered this initiative by passing a local ordinance of the CROWN Act in 2020, demonstrating leadership in promoting inclusivity.
• Community Voices: Ra’Von Jefferson, CEO of Kurl Culture KC, highlighted the positive impact on confidence among clients embracing natural hair. Parents like Luke Finocchiaro emphasize the bill’s role in normalizing natural hair and deterring discrimination in schools.

Significance and Future Outlook

The passage of the CROWN Act in Missouri represents a critical step toward achieving social justice and equality in education. It sends a powerful message that natural hair is acceptable and protected, fostering an environment where all students can thrive authentically. This legislative effort exemplifies commitment to the SDGs by promoting inclusive education and reducing inequalities.

Next Steps

• Governor Kehoe’s office is currently reviewing the legislation.
• The governor has until July 14 to sign the bill into law.
• Advocates and community members remain hopeful for the bill’s enactment, anticipating significant positive outcomes for children of color across Missouri.

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1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • The article discusses discrimination in schools and educational programs, highlighting the importance of inclusive and equitable quality education.
2. SDG 5: Gender Equality
   • The focus on empowering black women and girls by prohibiting hair discrimination relates to achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls.
3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • The bill aims to reduce discrimination based on hair texture and style, which addresses social inequalities and promotes inclusion.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • Target 4.5: Eliminate gender disparities in education and ensure equal access to all levels of education and vocational training for vulnerable populations.
   • Target 4.a: Build and upgrade education facilities that are inclusive and safe for all students.
2. SDG 5: Gender Equality
   • Target 5.1: End all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere.
   • Target 5.c: Adopt and strengthen policies and enforceable legislation for the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls at all levels.
3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • Target 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws and policies.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article

1. Indicator for SDG 4.5:
   • Proportion of students experiencing discrimination or exclusion in educational settings based on personal characteristics such as hair texture or style.
   • The article’s mention of black women being 1.5 times more likely to be sent home from school due to hair discrimination implies measuring exclusion rates.
2. Indicator for SDG 5.1 and 5.c:
   • Existence and enforcement of anti-discrimination laws and policies (e.g., the CROWN Act) protecting women and girls from discrimination based on appearance.
   • Changes in reported cases of discrimination against black women and girls in educational and work environments.
3. Indicator for SDG 10.3:
   • Number of discriminatory policies repealed or new inclusive policies enacted at state or local levels.
   • Reduction in perceived unprofessionalism linked to natural hair styles, as cited in the CROWN Research Study.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: kctv5.com