Today, Governor Josh Shapiro joined legislative leaders and local business owners to sign HB 439(opens in a new tab), also known as the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act, into law. The legislation amends the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA) to expand the definition of “race” to include traits historically associated with race, including hair texture, protective hairstyles, and religious creed.

With the signing of this bill, Pennsylvania becomes the 28th state in the nation to prohibit discrimination based on hair texture and protective hairstyles historically associated with race, ensuring that all Pennsylvanians can live and work without fear of racial bias in their hair or appearance. According to a 2022 Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) report, 916 complaints were filed that year alone related to racial discrimination involving hair texture and protective hairstyles.

The CROWN Act prohibits employers from discriminating against employees or applicants based on hairstyles such as locs, braids, twists, coils, Bantu knots, afros, and extensions, while still allowing businesses to enforce valid health and safety policies that apply equally to all employees.

The legislation was introduced by Representative Mayes and passed the General Assembly with strong bipartisan support.

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Someone's Struggling in the community, help with $1?

Emergent Rent Assistance Needed

I’m sharing this with humility and faith, believing that God often provides through community.

Over the past few months, I experienced unexpected but necessary car repairs. My vehicle is essential for work and caring for my child, and fixing it allowed me to remain employed. However, the cost of those repairs caused me to fall behind on rent during an already tight season.

I am now facing eviction. My leasing office has confirmed that if I can pay $1,820, the $432 eviction fee will be removed, and my housing will be secured.

I am not only asking for help — I am also willing to work. I am a writer and author, and I am open to providing writing services, articles, editing, devotionals, or other writing projects in exchange for support. I recently published a book, and writing is both my calling and my skill.

I am asking for prayer, support, or opportunities as I work to close this gap. I believe in accountability and stewardship, and I trust that God will make a way.

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2

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