The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) strongly condemns the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Noem v. Vasquez Perdomo, which provides temporary relief from a lower court ruling, allowing immigration enforcement stops based on race, language, occupation, or location. The ruling, handed down on September 8, 2025, endangers core civil rights protections and effectively sanctions discriminatory profiling. This decision also threatens Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches and seizures.
Justice Sonia Sotomayor, in her powerful dissent, warned the decision permits authorities to seize individuals simply because they “look Latino, speak Spanish, and appear to work a low wage job.” The PHRC shares her concerns and affirms its commitment to stand against all forms of discriminatory enforcement.
PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW states, “This ruling represents a dangerous step backward for civil rights in America. It places entire communities under suspicion based solely on appearance or language. The PHRC stands firmly against racial profiling in any form and will continue to fight for a Pennsylvania where every individual is treated with dignity, fairness, and equality under the law.”
Allowing law enforcement to operate based on broad, discriminatory assumptions—undermines the values that the PHRC enforces daily. Immigrant and minority communities, including those in Pennsylvania, now face increased risk of intrusive enforcement. Pennsylvania law prohibits discrimination based on national origin, race, language, and related characteristics, and the PHRC is dedicated to upholding equal treatment under the law in all areas where it holds jurisdiction.
Civil Rights Outreach Director Sheryl Meck adds, “Our immigrant and Latino communities should never have to live in fear that they will be targeted simply for who they are. The PHRC will continue to educate Pennsylvanians about their rights and work with communities to combat bias and discrimination wherever it appears.”
The PHRC provides training on a variety of social justice programs including Civil Rights Law and PHRC Jurisdiction, Civil Tension Reduction Basics, and Implicit Bias for Law Enforcement. To request a training visit the PHRC website.
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 acts of 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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