KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas City, Missouri, Mayor Quinton Lucas will sign the CROWN Act ordinance in a ceremony to take place Friday afternoon.
The Kansas City Council passed the ordinance unanimously on Thursday.
CROWN Act is the abbreviation for "The Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair" Act. The ordinance will prohibit racial hair discrimination in employment and educational opportunities within the city - allowing for natural hair textures and styles, including braids, locks, twists and knots.
Research done for the creation of the ordinance found that Black women are 1.5 times more likely to be sent home from work or school because of their hair. They are also 3.4 times more likely to be perceived as unprofessional. The research was sponsored by the Dove body care brand and CROWN Act legislation is being pushed across the country.
Third District Councilwoman Melissa Robinson and Fifth District Councilwoman Ryana Parks-Shaw introduced the ordinance and Mayor Lucas was a cosponsor.
“I know how it feels to be judged because of my hair and no one should have to deal with this kind of covert racism. Black men and women should be able to wear their natural hair without backlash or consequence, and the CROWN ACT will ensure them this protection," Parks-Shaw said in a statement on the ordinance's passage.
“This legislation demonstrates that Kansas City recognizes the importance of racial reconciliation and we are committed to removing all barriers that are rooted in bias and prejudice. We have a long way to go, my hope is that Kansas City residents are increasing their confidence in their local government’s goal to improve the quality of life for all residents," Councilwoman Robinson added in her own statement.
The signing ceremony will take place at Salon TCB on Blue Parkway at 1:30 p.m. Friday.
