Is discrimination based on hairstyles allowed under Florida law?
Discrimination against employees for wearing certain hairstyles, like locs, braids, or certain hair dyes, is an issue in many workplaces. Can employers in Florida discriminate against people based on their hairstyles?
Are hairstyles protected under Florida law?
Florida doesn’t have a specific law about hairstyle discrimination, but it does protect workers from racial discrimination. Hairstyles like locs, braids, or certain hair colors are often linked to a person’s race or culture. Discriminating against someone for wearing these hairstyles can count as racial discrimination, which is against the law.
The CROWN Act (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair), which became law in 2019, protects people from being discriminated against because of their hairstyles. While Florida hasn’t passed its own version of the CROWN Act, federal law under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 still protects employees from race-based discrimination, including discrimination based on hair.
Can employers set grooming policies that limit hairstyles?
Florida employers can set grooming rules, but they cannot unfairly target a certain race or culture. Employers might require employees to follow a dress code or “look professional,” but they cannot ban hairstyles like locs or braids without a good reason.
If an employer’s grooming rules hurt one race or group more than others and there is no legitimate business reason for it, the rules could be considered a form of discrimination. Employers can set grooming rules for safety or hygiene, but they cannot ban hairstyles like locs or braids just because they do not fit a certain “professional” look.
What should you do if you face discrimination based on your hairstyle?
If you think an employer is discriminating against you because of your hairstyle, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR). Both organizations look into workplace discrimination cases and can take action if necessary.
In Florida, employers cannot discriminate against employees because of their hairstyle, especially if the hairstyle is tied to a person’s race or culture. Even though Florida hasn’t passed the CROWN Act, federal law already protects employees from hairstyle discrimination. If you face discrimination because of your hairstyle, know your rights and take action.