Mableton passes ordinance protecting natural hairstyles in schools and workplaces

The city of Mableton has approved a new ordinance designed to prevent discrimination based on natural hairstyles in schools and workplaces.

The measure mirrors the CROWN Act, which protects styles such as braids, locks, Afros and twists. Supporters say the protections are meant to address long-standing concerns from Black residents who say they have faced pressure to change their appearance in professional or academic settings.

The ordinance establishes local protections against discrimination tied to natural hair and protective styles within Mableton.

City Councilwoman Keisha Jeffcoat said the proposal was inspired by personal stories shared by students and workers who felt they had to alter their hair to meet school dress codes or workplace expectations.

“I’ve had a lot of personal stories… students who were having to make adjustments to their hair because it didn’t fit the uniform code of the school, and also in the workplace.”

With the ordinance’s approval, Mableton becomes the first city in Cobb County to adopt local protections similar to the CROWN Act. Nationally, more than 40 municipalities and several states have enacted similar policies aimed at preventing discrimination based on natural hair.