Celebrating the Fifth National CROWN Day: A Testament to Black Beauty and Brilliance
Today, July 3, marks the fifth National CROWN Day, a significant occasion commemorating the inaugural signing of the CROWN Act on July 3, 2019. This act, designed to "Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair," has been instrumental in fighting race-based hair discrimination. This year, the celebration extends to the annual CROWN Awards, with a vibrant call to action encouraging everyone to join the movement and showcase #CROWNLove on social media.
The hallmark event of National CROWN Day is the annual CROWN Awards, presented by Dove. Hosted by Tai Beauchamp, the 2024 ceremony took place at the elegant Blackbird House in Culver City. This intimate gathering highlighted the extraordinary strength, grace, and impact of notable Black women and girls whose talents and leadership help advance the legacy of Black beauty and brilliance.
"Dove is proud to celebrate this major five-year milestone and all the progress made to end race-based hair discrimination in the U.S.," stated Tish Archie-Oliver, Head of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging, Unilever NA. "While there is much to celebrate with 26 states and 50 municipalities that have passed CROWN legislation (or Executive Orders), there is still work to be done. We look forward to continuing to uplift Black women and girls and encouraging people to proudly showcase their #CROWNLove as part of this year's National CROWN Day celebration of Black hair independence."
This year's celebration is filled with inspiring moments and notable achievements. The 2024 CROWN Awards honored influential figures such as Emmy Award-winning actress Uzo Aduba, LA County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, Graceyn "Gracie" Hollingsworth of "Gracie's Corner," activist LaTosha Brown, and Eunique Jones Gibson, Founder and CEO of Culture Brands and The Happy Hues Company. Special guests included actress Tina Lifford, actress Yaya DaCosta, Olympian Ibtihaj Muhammad, Oscar Award winner Matthew A. Cherry, and actress Novi Brown. For the second year in a row, Dove will partner with the beloved digital children's series, “Gracie's Corner” to create a new custom short focusing on #CROWNLove. This initiative encourages Gracie's young audience to love and celebrate their hair.
On July 3, CROWN Award honorees, trusted messengers like Tabitha Brown, Dr. Raquel Martin, Tina Lifford, and others, along with national and local affiliate newscasters, will drive a swell of conversation with CROWN Day posts. They will encourage people to post photos of their natural or protective styles on social media using #CROWNLove. Visit Dove.com/CROWN to learn more about the CROWN movement and take action by signing the official CROWN Act petition. Be sure to tag @Dove, @TheCrownAct, and #CROWNLove on all CROWN Day celebration posts.
Formed in 2019 by Dove, the National Urban League, Western Center on Law & Poverty, and Color of Change, the CROWN Coalition aims to create a more equitable and inclusive experience for Black consumers through the advancement of race-based hair discrimination legislation. This coalition, strengthened by over 100 community organizations, works tirelessly toward real, actionable change. The CROWN Coalition was founded by a team of Black women, including Esi Eggleston Bracey, Adjoa B. Asamoah, Orlena Nwokah Blanchard, and Kelli Richardson Lawson. Their efforts have seen CROWN Act legislation (and/or Executive Orders) enacted in 26 states and 50 municipalities, positively impacting the lives of more than 30 million Black people in the U.S.
Significant progress has been made, with states like California, New York, and New Jersey leading the charge in 2019, and Vermont joining the ranks in 2024. A CROWN-inspired Executive Order is in place in Arizona (2023) and Kentucky (2024). The state of New Hampshire awaits the Governor's signature to become the 27th state with CROWN protections. While these achievements are commendable, the journey continues. The fight against race-based hair discrimination is far from over. The CROWN Coalition remains committed to advancing this cause, ensuring that every Black individual can wear their hair with pride and confidence.
As we celebrate National CROWN Day, let's remember the power of unity and the beauty of diversity. Together, we can create a world where natural hair is celebrated and respected. Join the movement, share your #CROWNLove, and let's make a lasting impact.
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