Source: US State of Pennsylvania
February 05, 2025 – Harrisburg, PA
PHRC discusses 2024 ‘No Hate in Our State’ Report
The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) joined by state and local leaders at the state Capitol, discuss their newly released 2024 ‘No Hate in Our State’ report, which details trending discrimination statistics throughout the Commonwealth. The speakers discussed programs and initiatives offered by the PHRC and others to help eliminate hate and build a community of support and understanding.
PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter said, “As the Commonwealth’s civil rights enforcement agency, it is our responsibility to not only investigate all complaints of discrimination, but to truly live up to our vision, ‘that all people in Pennsylvania will live, work, and learn free from unlawful discrimination.’”
In 2025, the PHRC will mark 70 years since its creation. It was crafted from two pieces of legislation, the Pennsylvania Fair Employment Act of 1955 (later changed to the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act in 1997) and the Pennsylvania Fair Educational Opportunities Act of 1961. In general, Pennsylvania law prohibits 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 or guide animals for disability. Retaliation for filing a complaint, opposing unlawful behavior, or assisting investigations is also illegal.
Speakers in Order:
Amanda Brothman – Communications Director, Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC)
Chad Dion Lassiter – Executive Director, PHRC
Senator Vincent Hughes – 7th District, Montgomery & Philadelphia Counties
Michael Hardiman – Commissioner, PHRC
Ahmet Tekelioglu – Executive Director, CAIR
Yemi Baitista – Chair, Adams County Advisory Council to the PHRC
Rep. Christopher Rabb – 200th District, Philadelphia County
Rev. Marshall Mitchell – Senior Pastor of Salem Baptist Church