Harrisburg, PA —The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) condemns the tragic mass shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego, that killed three people. What appears to be an act motived by hate underscores a concerning trend of anti-Muslim violence, both across the nation and within our Commonwealth.
“It is unsettling to see these acts of discrimination and hate,” said PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW. “No one should ever feel afraid to enter a religious building or practice a type of religion. Hate has no place in country or our commonwealth. The mission of the PHRC has never been more important, we must end discrimination and hate.”
In 2025, The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) received more than 8,600 complaints of discrimination nationwide, that’s the highest number of single-year complaints CAIR has received. More than 500 of them were hate incidents.
“Hate has no place in our Commonwealth,” said PHRC Chair Curtis Jones, Jr. “At PHRC, we strongly believe each person has an inherent right to worship without fear of violence, discrimination, or hate. “Islamophobia is on the rise across our nation and the PHRC would like all Pennsylvanians to know that we will defend your freedoms and rights.”
Just a few months ago in February, Pennsylvania also saw a troubling anti-Muslim incident in Pike County. Police investigated after shots were fired into an Islamic Center building. No one was inside at the time, and no injuries were reported.
The PHRC urges all Pennsylvanians to stand in solidarity with Muslim communities. If you have experienced a hate crime, such as assault or property damage, contact your local police department or the Pennsylvania State Police. The PHRC does not charge or investigate hate crimes or criminal offenses. However, the PHRC does track incidents reported to us to inform the Pennsylvania Interagency Task Force on Community Activities and Relations. The PHRC can also help determine if an act of hate is also a violation of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act.
“Under the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act, you are protected from discrimination based on religion,” said PHRC Director of Enforcement Sherwood Goodenough. “If you feel you have experienced acts of discrimination or bias, we urge you to file a complaint with the PHRC. 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.”
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.
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