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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
COOK COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS SUPPORTING PROTECTIONS FROM RACE-BASED HAIR DISCRIMINATION
WHEREAS, the CROWN Act, standing for "Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair," is a legislative initiative designed to prohibit race-based hair discrimination in schools and workplaces; and
WHEREAS, hair discrimination disproportionately affects individuals with natural or cultural hairstyles, particularly those of African descent, leading to unfair treatment, bias, and prejudice in various facets of life; and
WHEREAS, the CROWN Act seeks to address systemic discrimination by affirming the right of individuals to wear natural hairstyles, including afros, braids, twists, locks, and other styles reflective of their cultural heritage and personal identity; and
WHEREAS, discrimination based on hair texture and style perpetuates harmful stereotypes and reinforces notions of beauty standards rooted in Eurocentric ideals, contributing to feelings of marginalization and exclusion among affected communities; and
WHEREAS, the Cook County’s Board of Commissioners passed protections aligned with the CROWN Act by amending the Cook County Human Rights Ordinance on July 20, 2023; and
WHEREAS, the Cook County Human Rights Ordinance prohibits discrimination against a person based on traits associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles; and
WHEREAS, by enacting this protection the County has taken proactive measures to combat racial discrimination, promote diversity, and foster a more inclusive and respectful society for all individuals regardless of their hair texture or style; and
WHEREAS, the Cook County Commission on Human Rights encourages individuals in Cook County who experience discrimination or harassment based on traits associated with race to file a complaint with the Cook County Commission on Human Rights.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that on behalf of the President, the Cook County Board of Commissioners and the 5.2 million residents of Cook County this legislative body hereby expresses its continued commitment to eliminating race-based hair discrimination in schools and workplaces; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the members of the Cook County board of Commissioners urge federal, state, and local governments to enact comprehensive legislation modeled after the CROWN Act and the Cook County Human Rights Ordinance, providing legal protections against hair discrimination and ensuring equal treatment and opportunities for all individuals; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we call upon educational institutions, employers, and other organizations to implement policies and practices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, including sensitivity training and awareness programs to address and prevent hair discrimination; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this legislative body encourages advocacy efforts to raise awareness about the prevalence and consequences of hair discrimination, mobilizing support for legislative action and systemic reforms to eradicate discrimination in all its forms; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that in affirming its commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, this legislative body stands in solidarity supporting protection from race-based hair discrimination and its mission to create a more respectful and open world for individuals of all races, cultures, and backgrounds, free from discrimination based on hair texture or style; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Honorable Body hereby acknowledges the harmful impact of hair discrimination on individuals' well-being, self-esteem, and professional opportunities, affirming the importance of fostering an environment where all individuals can express their cultural identity and heritage freely.
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