Home / Education / Student Wins Hair Row Against BYU
Student Wins Hair Row Against BYU
24 Mar
Summary
- Student sued BYU over demands to cut traditional long hair.
- School granted a rare exception based on tribal identity.
- Case resolved after student threatened legal action and damages.
Jerrhan First Charger, a student at Brigham Young University (BYU) and member of the Kainai Nation, has successfully resolved a legal dispute with the institution regarding his traditional long hair. The university had threatened suspension from classes and the Legends dance team due to its Honor Code, which mandates neat trimming for male students' hair.
First Charger, who considers his long braids sacred cultural expressions, received support from his tribe and mother. Despite this, BYU cited its strict Honor Code. Facing potential suspension, First Charger initiated legal action, even demanding $2.3 million in damages for emotional distress.
BYU ultimately granted First Charger a rare exception, acknowledging his tribal identity. The university stated that while its Honor Code remains in effect, case-by-case rare exceptions are possible. First Charger will continue his studies and participation on the BYU Living Legends dance team, concluding the legal matter.
This situation mirrors past disputes at BYU, including that of Michael Rafael Williamson Tabango in 2018 and Kanaan Vyshonne Barton on the Hawaii campus in 2024, both of whom challenged the school's hair policies based on their cultural heritage.
