Nevada is 12th state to pass CROWN Act, making race-based hair discrimination illegal

LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — In June, Democratic Governor Steve Sisolak signed the "CROWN Act" making Nevada the 12th state to get on board with the law.

"CROWN" stands for "Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair."

Jessica Smith-Peterson is a deputy public defender in Clark County, Nev., and she notes several occasions when she didn't feel safe wearing her natural hair.

When I would go on interviews I would always switch my hair from my natural twist out or from braids to wearing it straight," she said.

Under the CROWN Act, it's now illegal for state employers or schools to discriminate against someone because of their hairstyle, including natural curls and afros, as well as protective styles like braids, corn-rows, and locs.

"It's just a big feeling of relief I can exist the way I am, I can live in the skin I’m in," said Shanice Edwards a social worker here in the valley.

Edwards says she's had her fair share of bad experiences when it comes to wearing her natural hair.

I would constantly receive criticism from employers suggesting that I should change my hair or if it's going to be a distraction in the workplace," she explained.

Research conducted by The CROWN Act shows black women are 1.5 times more likely to be sent home from work because of their hair.

And they're 80% more likely to feel the need to change their hair from its natural state just to fit in at the office.

"Not only has it impacted me; but it has impacted my Mom, my Grandma, my Aunts who were told to come to work more professional or to tie their hair back," said local activist Jameelah Lewis.

She says the CROWN Act is long overdue and is needed on a national level.

"It really allows us to say ‘hey, stop talking about my hair,' but it also puts something in place to protect us," said Lewis.

Several other states have passed the CROWN Act including California. A national CROWN Act law passed in the House last year but failed to move through the Senate.

There is a petition pushing for more states to adopt this law you can find that petition here.