OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Washington House has passed a measure that would ban race-based discrimination against hair texture and hairstyles.
The measure passed on a bipartisan 87-10 vote Wednesday and heads to the Senate for consideration. If passed by the Senate and signed by Gov. Jay Inslee, Washington would join three other states with such a ban: California, New York and New Jersey.
>>RELATED: Black women demand end to hair discrimination
The bill amends the Washington Law Against Discrimination so that the term "race" includes traits historically associated or perceived to be associated with race, including hairstyles like afros, braids, locks and twists. Under the measure, people could file claims with the state’s Human Rights Commission if they believe they were discriminated against because of their hair.
“It is a shame that in 2020 we have to pass a bill to respect black women, men and children in their hair texture and the styles that they choose to wear," said Democratic Rep. Melanie Morgan, the bill’s sponsor. "This form of discrimination is embedded in the harmful impacts of black codes and historical injustices. These codes continue to limit the freedom of identity and cultural expression.”
More news from KIRO 7
- Mother of 5 dies after 4 days of solitary confinement at SCORE (GRAPHIC WARNING)
- Former 'Empire' actor Jussie Smollet indicted in Chicago
- Woman killed in Lakewood home invasion robbery
- Kansas woman convicted of beheading ex-boyfriend's mother alive 'so her soul could get out'
- Do you have an investigative story tip? Send us an email at investigate@kiro7.com
© 2020 Cox Media Group
