Federal Judge Hears Arguments in Lawsuit Over Black Student’s Hairstyle Punishment

A Black high school student in Texas is fighting back against racial and gender discrimination over his hairstyle, sparking a legal battle that has reached federal court. Darryl George, 18, has been out of his regular classes since August due to his refusal to change his tied and twisted locs, which the Barbers Hill school district says violate its dress code.

George and his mother, Darresha George, filed a federal civil rights lawsuit last year, alleging ongoing discrimination by the school district, superintendent, principal, assistant principal, as well as Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton. The lawsuit claims that George’s punishment violates the CROWN Act, a state law that prohibits race-based hair discrimination.

During a recent court hearing, George’s attorney argued that the district’s policy is discriminatory and not race-neutral, pointing out inconsistencies in how the policy is applied to boys versus girls. The attorney also argued that George’s hairstyle is a form of self-expression protected under the First Amendment.

The school district’s attorney countered that the policy is race-neutral and does not constitute discrimination. The district maintains that George’s hairstyle does not communicate a message to the world, therefore not violating his First Amendment rights.

Despite the legal arguments, the federal judge did not issue an immediate ruling, indicating that a final decision will be made at a later date. In the meantime, George continues to face challenges, including difficulty finding a job for the summer.

The case has drawn attention to the cultural and religious significance of hairstyles for many African Americans, highlighting the broader issue of acceptance and equality. As the legal battle continues, George and his supporters remain determined to fight for justice and equality in the face of discrimination.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.