Blog
What Pennsylvania’s CROWN Act Means for Families in Care
At A Second Chance, Inc., we are encouraged and inspired by the recent passage of the CROWN Act in Pennsylvania. This important legislation directly supports the dignity and well-being of the children, youth, and families we serve. Its impact aligns deeply with our mission to honor everyone with respect.
What Is the CROWN Act?
The CROWN Act (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair) amends the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to strengthen protections involving hair texture and style.
Under this expansion, hairstyles such as locs, braids, twists, coils, Bantu knots, afros, and extensions are now safeguarded. While institutions may still enforce legitimate health and safety policies, such guidelines must be and applied to all.
The legislation passed with strong bipartisan support and now awaits the Governor’s signature.
Why This Matters for Families in Care
At A Second Chance, Inc., we understand how deeply personal and meaningful hair can be, especially for children and youth navigating care. The CROWN Act reinforces principles we encourage every day.
- Affirming Individuality
Children and youth in care deserve spaces where they can express themselves freely and safely. This law helps ensure that their chosen hairstyles are respected in schools, placements, and other settings. - Reducing Unfair Treatment
Many young people have experienced discipline or negative attention because of their hair. The CROWN Act removes this barrier, allowing youth to focus on their growth, education, healing, and relationships. - Strengthening Housing & Public Accommodations Protections
Because the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act extends to housing and public accommodations, families and youth in shared or transitional living environments gain additional safeguards against discrimination based on hairstyle. - Supporting Permanency and Well-Being
Respecting personal expression is a crucial part of trauma-informed care. This legislation reinforces the importance of respect, stability, and affirmation throughout the permanency process. - Uplifting Support and Kinship Voice
The passage of this law is a testament to the power of support. At A Second Chance, Inc., we remain committed to supporting changes that promote dignity and fairness for every child and family.
Looking Ahead
At A Second Chance, Inc., we believe that dignity begins with being seen, accepted, and valued. The CROWN Act reinforces this belief by affirming every person’s right to wear their hair in a way that reflects who they are.
As we move forward, we celebrate this milestone and remain committed to creating systems where every child and family feels supported, respected, and free to show up fully as themselves.