Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits hairstyle discrimination in schools based on braids, locks, and twists in Rhode Island.

Highlights:

• Prohibits discrimination on the basis of race in all public elementary and secondary schools operated by the council on elementary and secondary education (Sec. 16-38-1B). 

• Specifies this prohibition applies to employment practices, admissions, curricular programs, extracurricular activities, athletics, and all other school activities (Sec. 16-38-1B).

• Defines “protective hairstyles” as including but not limited to braids, locks, and twists (Sec. 16-38-1C). 

• Defines “race” as traits historically associated with race including but not limited to hair texture and protective hairstyles (Sec. 16-38-IC).

Full Bill Text