HARRISBURG, PA —The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) today formally released its State of Fair Housing in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania report during a press conference held in the State Capitol Rotunda, bringing together state leaders, civil rights advocates, and housing experts to address ongoing disparities and outline a path forward to ensure equal housing opportunity for all Pennsylvanians.
The event featured remarks from PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW, along with Angela McIver, Executive Director, Fair Housing Rights Center; Senator Katie Muth, 44th District, Berks, Chester, & Montgomery Counties; Senator Carolyn Comitta, 19th District, Chester County; Representative Ismail Smith-Wade-El, 49th District, Lancaster County; Representative Tim Twardzik, 123rd District, Schuylkill County; Caroline Griffin, Director, Rural & Civic Engagement, PHRC; and Brittany Mellinger, Director, Fair Housing & Commercial Property, PHRC.
“The ability to live without fear of exclusion, retaliation, or bias is central to the promise of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act and to the moral fabric of a just Commonwealth,” said Lassiter. “This report is not simply an academic exercise. It is a call to action.”
Mellinger added, “These housing barriers have real impacts on Pennsylvanians who need stable, healthy housing in order to raise their families, to hold down jobs with livable wages, access the care and services they need, and to build the vibrant, resilient communities that we all seek and deserve.”
The State of Fair Housing in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania report examines current housing conditions, patterns of discrimination, and structural challenges impacting access and affordability. It also advances key policy and enforcement recommendations, including strengthening protections against source-of-income discrimination, addressing disparate impact and segregation, improving code enforcement and habitability standards, and increasing accountability for affirmatively furthering fair housing.
Following the formal presentation, speakers engaged with members of the media and stakeholders to discuss the report’s implications and next steps for implementation.
The full State of Fair Housing in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania report is available. A recording of today’s press conference is also available.
This white paper grew from a collaborative effort guided by a shared commitment to justice, opportunity, and dignity in housing,” said Griffin. “It offers a clear, practical path forward that is both urgent and within reach.”
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.