NORFOLK, Va. — It's an issue that Black people have been facing for years: discrimination due to their hair.
Issues from this problem sparked legislation that passed the House of Representatives, now it's up to the Senate.
It's called the Crown Act, which prohibits race-based discrimination. It inspired the creation of a new exhibit at a local HBCU that's using art as a voice for change.
Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair. That's what the Crown Act stands for, which is part of the inspiration for the "Crowns of Glory" art gallery at Norfolk State University.
All types of crowns are on display. It's inspired by the hair, head coverings, and hats of various heritages of various cultures.
Throughout James Wise Gallery are forms of expression from fashion to politics. Some NSU students believe that the impact of this gallery is very timely.
"Considering the things that are happening in our nation as far as like trying to suppress or trying to erase history or trying to shy away from diversity or from other cultures; just being able to be seen is very important," said Leah Williams, Junior Fine Arts major.
Another visitor says that she's proud that the exhibit expresses a topic that's very personal to the Black community.
"As Black women or Black people in general, we're so protective of our hair as far as like the styles and even the headwraps that we wear," said Anjenette Britton, Senior Fine Arts student.
According to the Gallery Director, Anna Isbell, the diversity in style or selection was intentional.
The art division wanted to not only represent the university but also the Hampton Roads community with what staff say is an issue that affects everyone.
"In the news where a kid is sent home from school or a woman is told to go home from her work; the fact that this is an act that, while it's been passed in 20 states that's not nearly enough. 20 states as everyone knows who's lived in America, is less than half," said Anna Isbell, James Wise Gallery Director and Art History Asst. Professor.
Virginia is one of those states—in fact, the first southern state to adopt the bill. Staff say they hope that students feel supported and inspired.
"It takes years for something like this to grow, so I think it is art because it's like you're investing in yourself," said Daron Prioleau, Fashion Design freshman.
Others are walking away with favorite pieces.
"The one with the twins, with their hair braided right behind me right here. The painting style of it, the colors, and the fact that she actually braided the hair outside of it," said Mark Harmon, Fine Arts photography sophomore.
Staff say pieces are from all different types of artists around the world. It's free and open to the public.
You can find out more information here.
