On October 14, 2025, Cuyahoga County became the first county in Ohio to pass its own version of the CROWN Act, expanding local anti-discrimination protections to include natural hairstyles. The ordinance prohibits discrimination based on hair texture and protective styles commonly associated with the African American community, including afros, locs, braids and more.
What Is the CROWN Act?
The CROWN Act, short for Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair, was first introduced in California in 2019 and has since been adopted by 28 states and numerous local governments. The law is designed to address grooming policies that may disproportionately impact individuals based on race or ethnicity by codifying protections for natural hairstyles in employment, housing, and public accommodations. In Ohio, cities such as Akron, Columbus and Cincinnati have enacted their own versions of the CROWN Act, but Cuyahoga County is the first county in the state to adopt such legislation.
What Employers Need to Know
The ordinance applies to employment, housing and public accommodations. For employers, this means grooming or appearance policies that restrict or penalize natural hairstyles may now be considered discriminatory under county law.
The law permits grooming standards related to health and safety, but only when those standards are applied uniformly and do not result in discriminatory outcomes.
How Employers Can Remain Compliant
To comply with the ordinance, employers should:
- Review Appearance Policies: Ensure grooming standards do not disproportionately affect individuals based on race or cultural identity.
- Train HR and Management: Educate staff on the ordinance’s requirements and how to avoid discriminatory practices.
- Update Reporting Procedures: Provide clear, confidential channels for employees to report concerns.
- Consult Legal Counsel: Align internal policies with local, state and federal anti-discrimination laws.
What Employees Need to Know
Employees working in Cuyahoga County are now protected under the ordinance from discrimination based on natural hairstyles. Here is what that means:
- Know Your Rights: You cannot be denied employment, housing, or access to public services because of your natural hair texture or style.
- Document Concerns: If you believe you’ve experienced discrimination, keep records of incidents, communications, and any relevant policies.
- Report Issues: You can file a complaint with your employer or directly with the Cuyahoga County Human Rights Commission.
- Seek Support: Consider speaking with legal counsel or advocacy organizations if you need assistance navigating a discrimination claim.
Enforcement of the CROWN Act in Cuyahoga County
The Cuyahoga County Human Rights Commission is responsible for investigating complaints, resolving issues and delivering penalties for violations of the ordinance.
Looking Ahead
The passage of the CROWN Act in Cuyahoga County highlights a growing legal trend: jurisdictions across the country, including cities, counties and states, are increasingly recognizing cultural identity within anti-discrimination laws. As this movement continues to gain traction, both employers and employees should remain informed and proactive to ensure compliance with evolving standards and to protect individual rights in the workplace and beyond.
Contact
Whether you are an employer navigating policy updates or an employee seeking clarity on your rights, KJK’s Labor & Employment attorneys are here to help. Reach out to ensure your workplace is in full compliance with Cuyahoga County’s newly enacted CROWN Act by calling our office at 216.696.8700.