Dreadlocks: A Reflection on Cultural [In]Sensitivity in American Schools

In recent years, the issue of dress codes in schools has gained considerable attention due to their impact on students’ rights, freedom of expression, and cultural sensitivity. One such case that has ignited controversy is that of a Black Texas student who received an additional suspension for sporting a Loc hairstyle, deemed in violation of the Barbers Hill Independent School District’s dress and grooming code. This incident raises important questions about the perception of Locs and their place in school dress codes, highlighting a deeper problem of cultural insensitivity in our increasingly diverse society.

Why has this happened even after the passing of the CROWN Act, a law that prohibits race-based hair discrimination in workplaces, schools, and housing? Governor Greg Abbott of Texas signed the act into law, taking effect on September 1, 2023. The CROWN Act means Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair. Correspondingly, the law has passed in 19 other states other than Texas. The legislation protects individuals from discrimination based on their natural hair texture, style, or protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, or twists.

So, what happened here?

It is essential to understand the cultural significance of Locs. Locs, short for dreadlocks, is a…