Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) strongly condemns the antisemitic and racist graffiti discovered at Roxborough High School this weekend. Acts of hate and discrimination directed at students and school communities are deeply troubling and have no place in Pennsylvania.
While the vandalism itself is reprehensible, PHRC leaders emphasized that the response from the Roxborough community stands as a powerful testament to shared values of dignity, inclusion, and mutual respect. Community members came together to remove the graffiti and replace messages of hate with messages of unity and affirmation.
“Incidents like this are painful and unacceptable, particularly when they target young people in places meant to be safe and nurturing,” said Sheryl Meck, PHRC Director of Civil Rights Outreach. “What matters deeply is how a community responds. When neighbors, families, educators, and students come together to reject hate and restore dignity, they demonstrate the values that truly define them.”
PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW praised the collective action taken by the Roxborough community and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to confronting hate in all its forms. “Racism and antisemitism are not isolated acts. These acts harm entire communities,” Lassiter said. “The response at Roxborough High School shows what is possible when people refuse to be divided and instead stand together to affirm humanity, belonging, and respect. That solidarity is a powerful counter to hate.”
PHRC Commissioner and City Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr. highlighted the significance of the community’s actions following the incident. “What truly moved me, however, was what came next,” Jones said. “I watched a community come together with strength, dignity, and purpose. Students, parents, educators, neighbors, and community leaders stood shoulder to shoulder to send a clear message that hate will not define who we are. That show of unity and solidarity is the real story here.”
The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission encourages anyone who experiences or witnesses acts of discrimination or hate to report them. PHRC remains committed to education, enforcement, and community engagement efforts that promote equal opportunity and protect the civil rights of all Pennsylvanians.
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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