Governor of Puerto Rico, Pedro Pierluisisigned a new law banning discrimination against people who wear afros, curls, dreads, twists, braids and other natural hairstyles.
The Associated Press reports that this measure was taken to protect citizens from discrimination in employment, housing, education and public services.
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Puerto Rico passes anti-hair discrimination law
Citizens in the racially diverse US territory celebrated the progress after several organizations pushed for the law.
Welmo Romero Joseph, community facilitator at the nonprofit Taller Salud, said: “It’s a victory for future generations.”
We know this is true! He believes it sends an uplifting message that “You can reach positions of power without having to change your identity.”
Although Title VII of the Civil Rights Act protects against discriminationalong with Puerto Rico’s laws and constitution, the table was shaken in 2016 when an Appeals Court dismissed a claim of hair discrimination lawsuit. Alabama Employer’s No Dreadlocks Policy It was ruled legal.
Puerto Rican lawmakers held a public hearing earlier this year. Several citizens explained how they have faced hair discrimination. They described employers refusing to hire people with natural hair.
Romero recalled that a high school principal demanded that he cut off his plain top “it was a source of pride.” He explained that he was an exemplary student with a “4.0” GPA and that your hairstyle should be irrelevant.
The Caribbean island has a population of 3.2 million, with 230,000 identifying exclusively as black. Under the new law, they will still “face derogatory treatment”. Additionally, 1.6 million people identify as being of two or more races, so you can imagine the diverse hair textures of the citizens!
Romero, in particular, is reportedly grateful for the law. However, he says authorities must take steps to ensure the legislation takes effect, according to the AP.
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AP staffer Dánica Coto contributed to this article.
What do you think, roommates?