LUBBOCK, Texas — Several schools in the South Plains and Lubbock area have been identified by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Texas as non-compliant with the CROWN Act, which mandates non-discriminatory policies regarding hairstyles.
On Wednesday, the ACLU issued formal requests to 51 school districts statewide, urging them to revise their dress code policies. Enacted in 2023, the CROWN Act — an acronym for Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair — prohibits discrimination against natural hair textures and protective hairstyles associated with race, such as afros, cornrows, braids, and locs.
The ACLU highlighted several South Plains districts in their correspondence:
- Borden County ISD
- Cotton Center ISD
- Floydada ISD
- Meadow ISD
- Nazareth ISD
- Sundown ISD
- Whiteface ISD
- Whitharral ISD
Additionally, Bovina ISD and Farwell ISD also received similar notifications. According to the ACLU, superintendents from Floydada and Meadow ISDs have indicated their intention to amend their policies in time for the new school year.
A comprehensive list of affected districts can be found here.
Chloe Kempf, an attorney with the ACLU of Texas, emphasized the importance of the CROWN Act in fostering an inclusive school environment. “Adhering to this law is not just a legal obligation but a crucial step in ensuring that students of color can express their racial and cultural identities without fear of discrimination,” Kempf stated. “Every student, regardless of race, religion, gender, or hairstyle, should feel welcomed and accepted in their educational environment.”