New York City to ban discrimination based on hair

Hair discrimination will now be considered racial discrimination in New York City

Hair discrimination to become illegal in New York City (Stock)

New York City has banned discrimination on the basis of hair, officials have announced.

The new guidelines, released by the city Human Rights Commission, were first reported by The New York Times, which says the guidelines are the first of their kind to be introduced in the nation.

According to The Times, the advised law applies to “natural hair, treated or untreated hairstyles such as locs, cornrows, twists, braids, Bantu knots, fades, Afros, and/or the right to keep hair in an uncut or untrimmed state” and is based on the “argument that hair is inherent to one’s race”.

Under the law, any discrimination against someone’s hair or hairstyle at work, school, or in public places will now be considered racial discrimination, and victims of such discrimination will be able to seek damages.

Additionally, those found in violation of the law face penalties up to $250,000.

The law is meant to protect all New Yorkers, but specifically black Americans who often face discrimination on the basis of “racial stereotypes that say black hairstyles are unprofessional or improper,” according to commissioner and chairwoman of the New York City Commission on Human Rights, Carmelyn P Malalis.

Malalis further explained the new law to BuzzFeed News, telling the site: “Hair is a part of you, and as such we want to make sure that people can express themselves.”

Hair nets can still be required, as long as they are required by everyone.

The guidelines will go into effect later this week.