Harrisburg, PA —The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) condemns the racist and antisemitic graffiti discovered on playground equipment at Glenside Park in Abington Township. The vandalism, which targeted a beloved public sculpture and a space meant for children and families, has caused widespread alarm and distress within the community.
“Acts of hate and intimidation, particularly those targeting community spaces where children and families gather, have no place in our Commonwealth,” said PHRC Interim Chair Curtis Jones, Jr. “Racist and antisemitic messages are designed to intimidate and divide, we stand firmly with the community in rejecting this hate.”
Local law enforcement is leading the investigation into the incident. While PHRC does not investigate criminal vandalism cases, the PHRC is monitoring the situation closely and remains available to support affected residents, community partners, and local leaders through education, outreach, and resources.
“A playground should be a place where children learn how to share space with one another, not where they are introduced to the ugliest expressions of racism and antisemitism,” said PHRC Interim Executive Director Amber J.E. Harris. “How we respond matters because our children are watching. They are learning from us what we are willing to challenge, what we are willing to excuse, and what kind of Commonwealth we expect them to inherit. Removing hateful symbols from a playground is important, but the real work is making sure the ideas behind those symbols never become acceptable in our communities.”
The PHRC is grateful to the residents who reported the vandalism, helped restore the playground, and are preparing to join Thursday’s community rally.
“Hate symbols are meant to create fear and division, but what we’ve seen in Glenside is unity and resolve,” said PHRC Civil Rights Outreach Director Sheryl Meck. “Neighbors came together to clean the park, support one another, and take a stand against hate. Their actions reflect the true character of this community.”
PHRC’s Civil Rights Outreach Division works directly with communities across Pennsylvania to educate residents about their rights, provide training on recognizing and addressing discrimination, and connect individuals and organizations with resources to respond effectively to hate and bias. The PHRC remains steadfast in its mission to enforce civil rights protections and to promote understanding and equity across all communities in Pennsylvania.
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 can help determine if an act of hate also violates the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA).
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.
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