Professional Hair Braiding Bill Passes In Illinois After Racial Slur

The idea of licensing professional hair braiders passed the Illinois House Wednesday, but not before a lawmaker ruffled some feathers during the debate.

State Rep. Monique Davis (D-Chicago) argued against it, saying the skill comes naturally to African-American women - and the state can license a beauty shop, but should not regulate the skill.

(Image of Braids - Haap Media - All Rights Reserved)

She drew a comparison which offended some. "You cannot license Latino people to make tacos. You can license them to have a restaurant," she said.

Davis' distinction was lost on the House's Hispanic members, who asked for - and received - an apology.

State Rep. Edward Acevedo (D-Chicago) accused Davis of mocking his ethnicity, adding most Taco Bell owners are white.

State Rep. Susana Mendoza (D-Chicago) asked that Davis apologize on the record, "because the insult was placed on the record."

Sheesh.  All this over the right for women to be able to braid hair professionally?

While many argue braiding shouldn't be regulated, other point out the benefits of being able to have a license, which offers braiders legitimacy and even the ability to ultimately win more business.

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