HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) has unveiled its 2024 “No Hate in Our State” report, which spotlights alarming trends in discrimination and hate both statewide and across the nation. The report also emphasizes the PHRC’s ongoing efforts through various programs and initiatives aimed at combating prejudice and fostering unity.
The release of the report was marked by a press event featuring remarks from several notable speakers, including PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter, Communications Director Amanda Brothman, Senator Vincent Hughes, Representative Christopher Rabb, and representatives from civil rights and community organizations.
PHRC Chair Joel Bolstein, Esq., highlighted the concerning realities facing Pennsylvania’s communities, stating, “Antisemitism, Islamophobia, AAPI hate, LGBTQ+ hate, and more are all at record levels. The future can be daunting, but the mission of the PHRC remains the same, to promote equal opportunity for all and enforce Pennsylvania’s laws to protect people from unlawful discrimination.”
According to the PHRC, the report is part of a larger tradition of tracking and addressing discrimination trends. “Since 2018, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission has put together several reports documenting trends in discrimination and hate we see nationwide and statewide,” said Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW. “The only thing we can do to end discrimination and hate is to open a seat at the table of our Beloved Community to everyone. When we can see a person’s humanity, see what truly ails them, we can begin a process of healing and work to build a culture of peace and understanding despite our differences. It’s the hope for a better future that can bring us together.”
The report draws attention to the increasing prevalence of various forms of hate and prejudice, including antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-LGBTQ discrimination. It also outlines the PHRC’s initiatives designed to educate, raise awareness, and enforce state laws prohibiting discrimination. Vice-Chair Dr. Raquel Yiengst reaffirmed the organization’s mission, stating, “Our staff works tirelessly to protect Pennsylvanians’ right to live, work, and learn free from unlawful discrimination. Anyone who faces discrimination should file a complaint with the PHRC.”
The report comes as the PHRC prepares to celebrate its 70th anniversary in 2025, reflecting on its historic role as Pennsylvania’s civil rights leader. Established in 1955 through the Pennsylvania Fair Employment Act (later revised as the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act), the PHRC also enforces the Pennsylvania Fair Educational Opportunities Act of 1961. The state’s laws prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religious creed, ancestry, age (40 and over), sex, national origin, familial status (only in housing), disability, and the use, handling, or training of support animals for disability. The laws also protect individuals from retaliation for filing a complaint or assisting in investigations.
Looking ahead, the PHRC intends to continue its robust efforts to address systemic discrimination while strengthening community bonds. From enforcing anti-discrimination laws to promoting initiatives that foster mutual understanding, the Commission remains committed to its mission of building a more inclusive and equitable Pennsylvania.
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