A recent incident at a Texas high school has ignited a debate about dress code policies and discrimination. Darryl George, an 18-year-old African American student, returned to school after spending 30 days at an alternative school for refusing to cut his locs hairstyle. However, he was once again suspended for not complying with the school’s dress code.
The school’s referral notice stated that George’s hair was out of compliance with the dress code, and if he corrected the violation, he would be allowed to return to regular classes. As a result, George will now face another 13-day suspension. His family, represented by attorney Allie Booker, is fighting to have the suspensions stopped.
This latest suspension comes after three months of disciplinary action for violating the school district’s dress code, which prohibits male students from wearing their hair in a style that extends below the top of a t-shirt collar, below the eyebrows, or below the earlobes. The George family argues that Darryl’s hair, worn in braids, is in compliance with the dress code and that the school’s policy is discriminatory.
The family filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against Texas Governor Greg Abbott, the state’s attorney general, and school officials for allegedly failing to enforce the state’s CROWN Act law. This law prohibits discrimination based on hairstyles associated with race and is meant to protect students like George.
Although the school spokesperson, David Bloom, says that George’s suspension will not impact his ability to graduate, his mother remains concerned about the effect it will have on his education. The family is determined to fight against what they see as unjust treatment.
State Representative Ron Reynolds, a co-author of the CROWN Act law, expressed his support for George and his family. He plans to propose changes to the law in order to expand its protections, specifically addressing the issue of hair length.
This incident has sparked widespread discussion about the need for inclusive and non-discriminatory dress code policies in schools. Many advocate for policy changes that celebrate diversity and cultural expression, ensuring that no student is unfairly targeted or excluded based on their hairstyle.
