HARRISBURG, PA —The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) will host a “No Hate in Our State” Town Hall titled Safeguarding Immigrant Communities & Civil Rights on Monday, January 26, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at the Consulate of Mexico in Philadelphia, located at 1650 Arch Street, 2nd Floor. A virtual participation option will also be available.
This community forum will bring together legal experts, government leaders, educators, and advocates to discuss civil rights protections, challenges facing immigrant communities, and the role of public institutions in preventing discrimination and hate-based conduct.
Panelists include:
- Tamara Shehadeh-Cope, Hearing Examiner, Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission
- Carlos Obrador Garrido Cuesta, Consul of Mexico in Philadelphia
- Marisabel Isel, PA 1 Student Support Specialist, Migrant Education
- Lourdes Cecilia Herrera Tejada, Consul General, Dominican Republic in Philadelphia
The discussion will be moderated by Hector Luis Torres-Díaz, Civil Rights Outreach Coordinator, Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission.
“No Hate in Our State” town halls are designed to bridge divides and foster understanding in communities across the Commonwealth. They provide an open forum where residents, advocates, educators, and public officials can come together to voice concerns, learn about their civil rights, and begin the process of healing in the aftermath of bias, discrimination, and hate.
“Immigrant communities are an essential part of Pennsylvania’s social, cultural, and economic fabric,” said Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW, Executive Director of the PHRC. “At a time when fear and misinformation too often drive division, the Commission is committed to ensuring that every resident, regardless of national origin or immigration status, knows their rights and has access to the protections afforded under Pennsylvania’s civil rights laws. This town hall reflects our mission to confront hate, promote dignity, and safeguard equality for all.”
Tamara Shehadeh-Cope emphasized the importance of legal education and community dialogue. “Civil rights protections are only meaningful if people understand how they apply and how to access them,” Shehadeh-Cope said. “This town hall creates space for honest conversation, practical guidance, and collective problem-solving, particularly for immigrant families who may face barriers to reporting discrimination or seeking help.”
The event is free and open to the public. Advance registration is required.
About the PHRC:
The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission enforces state laws that prohibit discrimination and promote equal opportunity for all people. The PHRC investigates complaints of discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public accommodations. Anyone who has experienced discrimination is urged to file a complaint by calling 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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