Your hairstyle is an expression of your culture, heritage, and individuality. But for many workers in Atlantic County, bias against natural hair or protective styles still exists in the workplace. Hairstyle discrimination is more than just unfair—it's illegal under New Jersey law. If you've been targeted at work because of how you wear your hair, you have the right to stand up and take action.
What Is Hairstyle Discrimination?
Hairstyle discrimination happens when an employer treats an employee unfairly due to their natural hair texture or protective styles like braids, twists, locs, cornrows, or afros. These biases are often rooted in racial stereotypes and disproportionately affect Black employees and other workers of color.
Examples of Hairstyle Discrimination
- Requiring employees to straighten or chemically alter their natural hair
- Banning hairstyles commonly associated with specific cultures
- Mocking, criticizing, or harassing employees because of their hair
- Denying promotions or assignments based on appearance
- Creating dress codes that disproportionately impact ethnic hairstyles
Legal Protections Under New Jersey Law
New Jersey was one of the first states to enact the CROWN Act (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair). This law expands the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) to prohibit discrimination based on hair texture, type, or style commonly associated with race.
What Employers Must Do
Employers in Atlantic County must ensure their grooming and appearance policies:
- Do not disproportionately impact specific racial or ethnic groups
- Allow natural and protective hairstyles without penalty
- Are applied fairly and consistently across the workforce
They are also required to promptly investigate any reports of harassment or unequal treatment related to hair.
What to Do If You’re Facing Hairstyle Discrimination
- Document everything: Keep records of any comments, dress code policies, or actions taken against you because of your hair.
- Report internally: File a complaint with your HR department or supervisor.
- Consult an attorney: If your concerns are dismissed or retaliation occurs, legal support can help you protect your rights and pursue compensation.
Available Remedies
- Policy changes within your organization
- Compensation for emotional distress or lost wages
- Job reinstatement or promotion if denied due to bias
- Punitive damages in cases of willful misconduct
- Attorney’s fees and costs
How Castronovo & McKinney Can Help
Castronovo & McKinney, Employment Law Attorneys stand with workers in Atlantic County who are targeted for their cultural identity and expression. Their team has extensive experience in fighting race-based discrimination, including hair-based bias, and will work to ensure you are treated with the dignity and fairness you deserve.
Contact Castronovo & McKinney, LLC Today
Your hairstyle is part of who you are. If your employer is discriminating against you because of it, contact Castronovo & McKinney today for a confidential consultation. The law is on your side—and so are they.
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New York, NY 10170
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Fax: 646.755.3781