Harrisburg, PA –Today, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) participated in a community response to hate rally at the Allentown City Hall. The rally was a response to an incident that occurred Friday, January 10. According to police, a small item resembling a noose was discovered on an employee’s desk.

“The PHRC is glad to see police are investigating this incident. We strongly condemn any type of hateful messages or acts of intimidation,” said PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW. “No one should feel intimidated to enter their place of employment. Hate should never be tolerated. I urge anyone who feels they have experienced discrimination to contact the PHRC and file a complaint. It is only through bringing attention to acts of discrimination can we make a change in our communities and the Commonwealth.»

Today at noon, a representative from the PHRC joined clergy members, mental health professionals, local leaders, and community members at the Allentown City Hall for a rally.

“Today, one of the PHRC Civil Rights Division Outreach Coordinators attended this rally to show our support to all those who experience discrimination,” said PHRC Civil Rights Outreach Director Sheryl Meck. “The PHRC is committed to serving the people of the Commonwealth and making them aware of their rights and protections. While we follow the police investigation of this incident, the PHRC wants all Pennsylvanians to know if you experience discrimination, you can file a complaint with the PHRC. The PHRC also offers training and education for employees, organizations, and schools.”

In 2024, the PHRC established a Civil Rights Outreach Division to address civil tensions, conflict, and incidents in communities and promote anti-racism through education and outreach. Through this division, the PHRC:

• Provides complex facilitation and conflict resolution services for communities facing conflicts and tensions related to race, color, religious creed, ancestry, age, sex, LGBTQ+ status, national origin, familial status, or disability status pursuant to the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act.
• Provides training and consultation services to public officials and community representatives and provide them with the skills and mechanisms necessary to prevent and resolve future tensions.
• Leads local projects or initiatives in conjunction with communities to prevent conflict.
• Engages in proactive outreach to educate the public about the dangers of bias and hate and the importance of anti-racism.

The PHRC does not have the authority to charge or investigate hate crimes or criminal offenses; however, the PHRC Civil Tension Reduction Task Force tracks incidents reported to us. The PHRC can also help determine if the incident violates the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act.

The PHRC enforces state laws that prohibit illegal discrimination. To file a complaint, call 717-787-4410. Information and resources are also available on the PHRC website. Follow the PHRC on X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube, and subscribe to our monthly newsletter.