Friends — Let’s take a trip back to this summer when the Olympics had the attention of the entire world.

In a shocking, but not necessarily surprising move, the International Swimming Federation banned swimming caps that were specifically designed to protect natural hair.

Black Twitter was outraged, and rightfully so. Olympic swimmers work their entire careers for a chance at gold, and should not have to worry about their hair, period. The only thing these elite athletes should’ve been concerned about was their performance, but instead also had to navigate the challenges of discrimination.

The House took a step towards a better future and passed the CROWN Act, protecting us from race-based hair discrimination. Will you sign on as a citizen co-sponsor of this important legislation?

Next time we hear that familiar Olympic tune, it will be in Los Angeles in 2028. We need to act to ensure that not just our Black athletes are protected, but that no one has to worry about hair discrimination. 

— Stacey Plaskett