Austin, Texas — A significant number of Texas school districts are under scrutiny for failing to comply with a new state law designed to prevent discrimination based on hairstyles associated typically with Black and other minority students. The American Civil Liberties Union of Texas announced this week that it has issued warnings to 51 school districts that are reportedly not enforcing the Texas CROWN Act.
The CROWN Act, which stands for “Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair,” was signed into law last year. It aims to safeguard individuals against bias in schools, workplaces, and housing due to their hair texture or style, including protective styles like dreadlocks, braids, afros, and cornrows. These hairstyles carry significant historical and cultural importance for Black and Indigenous communities.
According to the ACLU, the violations stem from persisting dress code policies that include prohibiting or penalizing hairstyles deemed “excessively bushy” among others, which directly conflicts with the protections intended by the CROWN Act. The civil rights group has sent letters with detailed examples of non-compliance and encouraged illicit districts to amend their policies to avoid potential legal or administrative consequences.
Some districts have already responded positively to the ACLU’s outreach. For example, Boling ISD, Cisco ISD, Floydada ISD, Meadow ISD, and Tolar ISD have indicated plans to revise their policies in accordance with state law before the start of the upcoming school year.
The ACLU’s efforts underscore a larger movement towards ensuring freedom of racial and cultural expression in educational environments. “It’s crucial that students of all backgrounds feel accepted in their educational settings,” said Chloe Kempf, an ACLU of Texas attorney. “Adjusting these dress codes not only aligns with the law but also plays a part in building an inclusive community where students can thrive without fear of discrimination.”
Moreover, prior ACLU studies revealed that a staggering 80% of Texas districts had vaguely worded hair policies that could lead to racial discrimination. Furthermore, 7% expressly banned or restricted hairstyles and hair textures that are commonly associated with specific races.
Beyond hair-related issues, ACLU reports have also highlighted other discriminatory aspects of dress codes regarding gender expression and economic status. Many districts continue to enforce outdated gender norms and inadvertently penalize economically disadvantaged students by restricting clothing that may appear worn or outdated.
The broader implications of these findings suggest a need for systemic change in how schools formulate and implement dress codes to foster an environment of equality and respect. For further details about the CROWN Act and ongoing efforts to promote a more accepting and respectful atmosphere in Texas schools, interested parties are directed to TexasCrownAct.org. Through these channels, the ACLU continues to advocate for reforms that uphold the dignity and identity of every student across the state.