A bipartisan effort to combat hair discrimination has been reintroduced in Congress amid the Trump administration’s scrutiny of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The “Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair Act of 2025,” also known as the “CROWN Act of 2025,” aims to prohibit discrimination based on hairstyle or hair texture related to race. The bill encompasses protection against bias in various settings, including federally assisted programs, housing programs, public accommodations, and schools.

Led by New Jersey Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, the legislation highlights the challenges faced by Black and Brown Americans, particularly students, due to their hair. Watson Coleman emphasized the importance of acknowledging diversity and the right to self-expression through one’s hairstyle without it affecting their abilities or opportunities.

A companion bill was introduced in the Senate by Senators Susan Collins and Cory Booker, further underscoring the bipartisan support for ending hair-based discrimination. Despite previous legislative setbacks, efforts to pass similar bills continue. The current bill faces challenges in a divided Congress, but proponents remain hopeful in garnering sufficient support for its passage.

The CROWN Act has gained momentum at the state level, with 25 states implementing laws against hair discrimination. Advocates stress the significance of embracing diverse hairstyles aligned with racial identity and pushing back against discriminatory grooming policies. Legal battles and concerns about potential rollbacks in diversity initiatives further highlight the ongoing need to combat hair discrimination.

Watson Coleman and her colleagues are committed to advocating for the CROWN Act, emphasizing the persistence in pursuing its passage to uphold respect and equality in matters of personal appearance.