[SEATTLETIMES] A bill to prohibit discrimination in Washington based on hair texture, specifically targeting hairstyles traditionally worn by Black people, is awaiting the Gov. Jay Inslee’s signature.House Bill 2602 would amend the Washington Law Against Discrimination (WLAD) so that race includes "traits historically associated or perceived to be associated with race," specifically citing hairstyles including Afros, braids, locs and twists. It passed the Legislature on March 4, with a Senate vote of 38-9.
On the Senate floor, Sen. Jamie Pedersen, D-Seattle, said that while WLAD prohibits racial discrimination, "we haven’t had any explanation of exactly what that means."
The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Melanie Morgan, D-Parkland, said the legislation is geared toward dismantling the racist idea that hairstyles traditionally worn by Black people are unprofessional, distracting or unkempt. Morgan was also partially inspired by recent events in which Black high school students have been told they need to change their hair in order to participate in graduation and other activities.
The legislation is now sent to the governor, where it is likely to be signed.
In public testimony for the bill, RaShelle David, representing Gov. Jay Inslee, said the bill aligned with the governor’s "strategic priorities" of diversity, equity and inclusion.
Related:
Hair texture: 2020-02-17 Minnesota Considers Bill Against Hair Discrimination
Hair texture: 2019-10-30 'Y'all were running from us': Michelle Obama claims 'white folks' are 'afraid' of living in black neighborhoods
Hair texture: 2006-05-14 Definitions of Racism (According to Seattle Public Schools)
Hair texture: 2020-02-17 Minnesota Considers Bill Against Hair Discrimination
Hair texture: 2019-10-30 'Y'all were running from us': Michelle Obama claims 'white folks' are 'afraid' of living in black neighborhoods
Hair texture: 2006-05-14 Definitions of Racism (According to Seattle Public Schools)