Race Discrimination Based on Hair is Illegal
Hair discrimination often reflects deeper issues of race discrimination in the workplace. Have you ever faced job loss or missed out on opportunities due to your hairstyle not fitting the norm? Does your employer’s hair policy clash with your heritage or religion? New Jersey now offers protection. The groundbreaking guidelines from the New Jersey Commission on Human Rights bar discriminatory actions or policies regarding hair and hairstyles. This move sets a precedent in the United States, ensuring fair treatment for all.
So, what does this mean for you?
This means that your employer can’t enforce policies that target cultural hairstyles like dreads or cornrows. They can’t penalize you for sporting an afro or wearing braids, whether through termination, lack of promotion, or denial of a raise. Similarly, establishments like bars or restaurants can’t refuse you entry based on your hairstyle. Moreover, schools can’t force your child to change their hairstyle, nor punish them for it. Importantly, if you raise concerns about these issues and face retaliation, you’re legally protected.
The guidelines make it clear that discrimination based on racial characteristics, including hairstyles associated with Black people, is prohibited. This encompasses a wide range of styles like locs, cornrows, twists, braids, Afros, and more. Additionally, the law extends protection to communities with religious or cultural ties to uncut hair, such as Native Americans, Sikhs, Muslims, Jews, Nazirites, and Rastafarians, as well as other impacted groups like Latinos and Indo-Caribbeans.
Unfortunately, in some instances, comments or behaviors regarding your hair may escalate to sexual harassment. It’s crucial to note that there may be time limits on federal harassment claims, so seeking legal advice promptly is essential. Consulting with an attorney who specializes in racial discrimination and sexual harassment can help ensure you understand your rights and pursue appropriate action.
Contact our Experienced Hamilton Township Hair Discrimination Attorneys
Castronovo & McKinney, LLC is dedicated to providing strong legal representation for individuals facing discrimination or sexual harassment. With experienced attorneys who specialize in litigating these claims, they offer aggressive advocacy for clients who have suffered from unlawful employment practices. With offices in key locations like New Jersey, including Bergen, Essex, Middlesex, and Morris Counties, as well as in cities like Hackensack, Newark, New Brunswick, and Morristown, they have a proven track record of recovering millions on behalf of their clients. Contact us now to get started on your claim. Let them stand up for your rights when it matters most.