SPRINGFIELD – State Sen. Mike Simmons will support caregivers to provide culturally appropriate hair care to the youth in their care to promote healthy hair and self-confidence in their communities. We are leading ground-breaking initiatives aimed at achieving this goal.
“Hair plays an important role in young people’s lives,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “This bill will not only increase their self-esteem, but also foster a sense of belonging and confidence, which can positively impact every aspect of their lives.”
House Bill 5097 would require the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services to include a hair care plan during case reviews that outlines the training and resources needed to ensure each child receives culturally appropriate hair care. I am. Simmons’ action outlines a plan to address culturally appropriate hair care training, including maintaining young people’s cultural, gender and religious identities and teaching them habits that promote healthy hair.
Simmons will build on her work highlighting the important connection between hair and cultural identity in her efforts to pass the Jett-Hawkins Act of 2021, establishing a framework that protects cultural connections to improve access to care. The aim is to foster a sense of belonging and self-confidence among young people. hair.
“Culturally appropriate hair care is more than just a grooming practice; it’s an affirmation of identity and self-worth,” Simmons says. “By recognizing and respecting young people’s diverse hair textures and styles, we enable them to embrace their heritage with pride.”
House Bill 5097 passed the Senate on Friday.
