Harrisburg, PA -The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) has released its 2024 “No Hate in Our State” report. The report details discrimination and hate trends seen nationally and statewide. The report also offers information about the programs and initiatives offered by the PHRC to help eliminate hate and build a community of support and understanding.
“In this report, you will see information about the discrimination we are seeing not only in our Commonwealth but also across the nation, said PHRC Chair Joel Bolstein, Esq. "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.”
“Since 2018, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission has put together several reports documenting trends in discrimination and hate we see nationwide and statewide,” said PHRC 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.”
“As the state’s civil rights leader, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission is committed to enforcing state laws and promoting equal opportunity,” PHRC Vice-Chair Dr. Raquel Yiengst. “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.”
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.
The PHRC administrative, legal, and investigative staff is led by an executive director in Harrisburg and regional directors in Harrisburg, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh. It consists of 11 Commissioners who are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the state Senate. The Commissioners’ primary role is to resolve cases where violations of law have been found if they are not settled voluntarily. The PHRC is independent and nonpartisan, with no more than six Commissioners from one political party. The Chairperson is appointed by the Governor, and a Vice-Chairperson, Secretary, and Assistant Secretary are elected by the Commissioners each year. The Executive Director reports to the Commissioners.
About the PHRC: 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.
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