HARRISBURG, PA – The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) joins voices across the nation in expressing deep concern over the deployment of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., and the suggestion that military presence could expand to other cities across the United States. As the Commonwealth’s civil rights enforcement agency, the PHRC calls for responses rooted in justice, community trust, and respect for civil liberties rather than force.
“The use of military force to police our communities, particularly communities of color, only deepens divides and inflames tensions,” said Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW, Executive Director of the PHRC. “History shows us that peace is never achieved through intimidation. The notion that this action is justified because, “violence is out of control,” is not supported by evidence. “Violence is decreasing—not surging. Deploying armed troops to our neighborhoods is a reaction to fear, not facts.”
According to FBI data, violent crime in the U.S. decreased by 4.5% in 2024 compared to 2023. Specifically:
- Murder and nonnegligent manslaughter dropped nearly 15%
- Aggravated assault fell 3.0%
- Robbery decreased 8.9%
Meanwhile, D.C. experienced a 35% drop in overall violent crime in 2024 compared to 2023, reaching its lowest level in over 30 years. Homicides fell 32%, robberies 39%, and assaults with a dangerous weapon 27%.
PHRC Commissioner and Philadelphia Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr. echoed these concerns, “When you say cities are being overrun by violence despite statistics showing dramatic declines, you’re stoking panic, not addressing reality. Our communities deserve evidence-based strategies—investments in policing, social services, and rebuilding trust—not military occupation.”
The PHRC also stands in solidarity with partners across state lines. Cleveland Horton, Executive Director of the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights, emphasized the regional and national implications. “The evidence is clear: crime is down. Claiming otherwise justifies stripping rights through fearmongering. That’s deeply dangerous. Civil rights and community safety must be our guiding priorities and not misleading rhetoric.”
The PHRC reaffirms its commitment to protecting the civil rights of all Pennsylvanians and to working with state and national partners to strengthen community programs, equitable law enforcement reforms, and collaborative approaches to safety—where trust, not force, leads the way.
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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