Is hairstyle discrimination illegal in Atlantic County workplaces?

Yes. Under New Jersey law, employers in Atlantic County cannot discriminate against employees for wearing hairstyles associated with race, ethnicity, or religion—such as braids, locs, Afros, or uncut hair.

What hairstyles are protected under NJ anti-discrimination law?

Protected styles include, but are not limited to, Afros, twists, cornrows, braids, locs, and natural hair textures. The law also covers religious and cultural grooming practices involving uncut hair.

Can my employer in Atlantic County enforce a grooming policy that bans certain hairstyles?

Not if the policy disproportionately targets or negatively affects hairstyles linked to race, culture, or religion. Such policies are considered discriminatory and are not allowed under NJ law.

What should I do if I was fired or demoted because of my hairstyle?

Contact an employment discrimination attorney immediately. You may have grounds to file a legal claim for race-based or cultural hairstyle discrimination under New Jersey employment laws.

Does this law apply to schools and public places in Atlantic County?

Yes. Schools and businesses like restaurants or shops cannot enforce dress codes or policies that punish individuals for cultural or natural hairstyles.

What protections exist if I report hairstyle discrimination and my employer retaliates?

New Jersey laws protect employees who speak up about discrimination. If you face retaliation—such as termination, demotion, or harassment—you can pursue additional legal remedies.

Are comments about my hair at work considered harassment?

They can be. Repeated or offensive comments about your hairstyle, especially those with racial or sexual undertones, may amount to workplace harassment or a hostile work environment.

Atlantic County Hairstyle Discrimination Attorneys

Race-Based Hair Discrimination is Illegal in Atlantic County Workplaces

Race discrimination tied to hairstyle is illegal under New Jersey law. Employers in Atlantic County cannot enforce grooming policies that target hairstyles commonly associated with race, culture, or religion. These protections cover styles such as locs, braids, cornrows, Afros, and twists, which are often linked to Black identity and expression.

If you’ve been disciplined, demoted, passed over for promotions, or terminated because of your hairstyle, your employer may be in violation of the law. The same applies if your employer’s policies conflict with cultural or religious practices—such as uncut hair worn by Sikhs, Muslims, Jews, Rastafarians, or Native American communities.

The New Jersey Commission on Human Rights has issued clear guidelines banning these practices. Businesses in Atlantic County—including restaurants, bars, and retail establishments—cannot deny entry or services based on hair. Schools are also prohibited from enforcing hairstyle changes or punishing students because of how they wear their hair.

If you raise concerns about these practices and your employer retaliates, you are protected under state and federal laws. Retaliation can include termination, pay cuts, reduced hours, negative performance reviews, or exclusion from work opportunities.

In some instances, discriminatory comments or conduct about hair may also qualify as sexual harassment. These claims can be complex and time-sensitive. Consulting with an attorney is essential to ensure your case is filed within the appropriate legal deadlines.

Work with Experienced Hair Discrimination Attorneys in Atlantic County

The legal team at NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC focuses exclusively on employment law. We represent clients in Atlantic County who face race-based hair discrimination or related forms of harassment in the workplace. Our attorneys are experienced in litigating cases involving grooming policies, cultural bias, retaliation, and sexual harassment.

We provide strong, strategic legal support to help clients hold employers accountable. Contact us today to discuss your case and understand your legal rights.