HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Homer C. Floyd, a pioneering civil rights activist and former Executive Director of the PHRC. Floyd leaves behind a lasting legacy of justice, equity, and unwavering commitment to civil rights in Pennsylvania and beyond.
Homer Floyd served as Executive Director of the PHRC from 1970 until his retirement in 2011. His 41-year tenure remains the longest in the agency’s history and marked a transformative era for civil rights enforcement in the Commonwealth. Under his leadership, the PHRC expanded its reach, strengthened protections under the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act, and responded vigorously to incidents of discrimination in housing, employment, education, and public accommodation.
“Homer Floyd was a moral giant whose voice and vision shaped civil rights enforcement in Pennsylvania for more than four decades,” said PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW. “He was a trailblazer who never wavered in his pursuit of justice, and he paved the way for generations of leaders committed to equality. We honor his life, his work, and the example he set for us all.”
Before coming to the PHRC, Floyd was active in the national civil rights movement, fighting for fair housing, school integration, racial desegregation efforts, equal pay for women, and more. As the head of the Kansas Commission on Civil Rights, in 1968 he shared the stage with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and on the day of King’s assassination, he was carrying a note with Floyd’s name on it. As the PHRC Executive Director, he brought a tenacity and passion to his public service that inspired change across Pennsylvania.
Commission Chair M. Joel Bolstein, Esq. added, “The Commission—and the Commonwealth—owe Homer Floyd a debt of gratitude. His leadership helped dismantle structural discrimination and advance civil rights during some of the most challenging decades in our nation’s history. He believed deeply in the power of law and policy to drive equity, and he leaves behind an indelible legacy.”
Commissioner Michael Hardiman, Esq., who served as Chief Counsel of the PHRC during Floyd’s tenure, reflected on his decades-long professional relationship with Floyd: “Working alongside Homer was one of the great honors of my career. He led with humility, courage, and conviction. His strategic brilliance and moral clarity shaped how the PHRC responded to discrimination and injustice. Homer always centered the people we served—he was never about ego, only about impact. His passing is a tremendous loss, but his vision continues to guide the Commission’s work every day.”
The PHRC extends its heartfelt condolences to Mr. Floyd’s family, friends, and all whose lives he touched. Homer C. Floyd was 89 years old.
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 or hate 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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