The citizens of Puerto Rico secured a major win! The Governor has officially banned discrimination against natural hair.
According to reports, the Island’s governor, Pedro Pierluisi, signed a bill making it illegal to discriminate against people with natural hair such as afros, twist-outs, curly hair, braids, and more within the workplace.
The law was made official on Wednesday, July 24th. This move was something that local community leaders have been fighting for. Welmo Romero Joseph, a community facilitator with the nonprofit organization Taller Salud spoke about the historic moment.
“It’s a victory for generations to come,” he said. “The bill can help people reach positions of power without having to change their identity.”
Puerto Rico’s constitution does have a clause that prevents discriminatory practices, however, the 1.6 million people of the Island’s population identify as two or more races, with most of them identifying as Black.
Many citizens have reportedly complained about being discriminated against in the workplace. They also revealed that they have been offered jobs with terms that they would have to cut their hair.
This new law in Puerto Rico joins the likes of 24 states that abide by the Crown Act. This act puts an end to hair discrimination due to texture, or style especially if it’s associated with race or religion.
What are your thoughts on this?