Statement by the Personal Care Products Council on Federal Legislation, Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Lisa Powers, (202) 297-1232, powersl@personalcarecouncil.org
Stefanie Harrington, (202) 615-6558, harringtons@personalcarecouncil.org
Jamie Kurke, (202) 258-5285, kurkej@personalcarecouncil.org
Washington, D.C. – “The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) applauds the U.S. House of Representatives’ passage of the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act. The CROWN Act seeks to prevent discrimination based on characteristics such as hair texture and cultural styles, particularly those common in the Black community. It specifically recognizes that Black individuals are disparately impacted and excluded from some workplaces based on hair discrimination. As such, the CROWN Act amends definitions of ‘race’ to include those traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles like ‘braids, locks and twists.’
“With a deep-rooted commitment to diversity, PCPC has long supported the CROWN Coalition’s mission to advance anti-discrimination legislation across the United States and actively supported passage of similar legislation in seven states. While industry has made progress, we know there is more work to do to address diversity.
“Legislation such as the CROWN Act creates a clear link between natural hair and race, and broadens the scope of protections to prevent more subtle forms of bias that may be found in the workplace. Grooming and dress are an important part of society and should be fully embraced and respected.”
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Based in Washington, D.C., the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the leading national trade association representing global cosmetics and personal care products companies. Founded in 1894, PCPC’s approximately 600 member companies manufacture, distribute and supply the vast majority of finished personal care products marketed in the U.S. As the makers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on and trust every day – from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, lipstick and fragrance – personal care products companies are global leaders committed to product safety, quality and innovation.