Bill
AJR 143
AJR 143 designates September 15 as World Afro Day in New Jersey and asks the Governor to issue an annual proclamation to promote learning about Afro hair and inclusivity.
AJR 143 – Summary and Analysis
Purpose
- AJR 143 is a joint resolution that designates September 15 of each year as “World Afro Day” in New Jersey and requests the Governor to issue an annual proclamation recognizing the day. It aims to promote learning about Afro hair, celebrate its beauty, and encourage inclusivity in schools and communities.
Key Provisions
- Section 1: Designates September 15 of each year as “World Afro Day” in New Jersey to recognize and celebrate Afro hair and to encourage learning and inclusivity within the state.
- Section 2: Requires the Governor to annually issue a proclamation recognizing September 15 as “World Afro Day” in New Jersey and to urge educational and cultural institutions to observe the day with appropriate activities and programs.
- Section 3: Provides that the joint resolution takes effect immediately.
Background and Context
- World Afro Day originated in the United Kingdom, first observed on September 15, 2017, as a celebration of natural hair and an educational event about Afro hair.
- The date was chosen to mark the 2016 U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals decision (subsequently revised) upholding the rescission of a job offer due to the applicant’s dreadlocks (Chastity Jones). The resolution notes this as part of the historical context of hair discrimination.
- The resolution references ongoing efforts to combat hair discrimination, including New Jersey’s prior enactment of the Create a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair Act (CROWN Act) in 2019, which aligns with the goal of promoting inclusive treatment of Afro-textured hair.
Impact and Implementation
- This is a symbolic, commemorative measure with no mandated programs, funding, or regulatory changes beyond encouraging observance and education.
- It would likely encourage schools, libraries, museums, and cultural institutions to host events or activities related to Afro hair, history, and culture.
- There is no specified budget or enforcement mechanism; implementation would rely on voluntary observance and proclamations by the Governor.
Procedural Status and Related Legislation
- Status: Introduced in the Assembly on February 12, 2024; referred to the Assembly State and Local Government Committee.
- Related Bills: Companion measure in the Senate, SJR 62.
Notes
- AJR 143 is a joint resolution, not a statute or spending measure.
- The resolution designates a calendar date and seeks gubernatorial proclamation to promote awareness and inclusivity regarding Afro hair and related cultural education.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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