Harrisburg, PA – In response to a recent violent anti-LGBTQ incident in York, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) will host a No Hate in Our State Town Hall on Wednesday, September 3, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at York City Hall, 101 S. George Street, York, PA 17401.
The town hall will bring together community leaders, advocates, and residents for an open dialogue on discrimination, hate, and building a more inclusive York.
Confirmed speakers include:
- Clare Twomey, Executive Director, York Human Relations Commission
- Rev. D. Marie Tribble, Pastor, Heidelberg United Church of Christ
- Christina Wingert, Executive Director, Rainbow Rose Center
- Ashleigh Strange, Executive Director, Governor’s Advisory Commission on LGBTQ Affairs
The discussion will be moderated by Sheryl Meck, Director of PHRC’s Civil Rights Outreach Division.
The event comes after reports of an anti-LGBTQ incident in downtown York on August 22. York City Police and Mayor Michael Helfrich have confirmed that additional charges are expected as the investigation continues. The York Human Relations Commission has been working closely with Police Commissioner Michael Muldrow in response to community concerns.
“Incidents like this remind us why No Hate in Our State is more than just a campaign—it is a commitment to stand with our neighbors against hate and discrimination,” said Chad Dion Lassiter, Executive Director of the PHRC. “This town hall is an opportunity for the York community to come together, lift up the voices of those affected, and reaffirm that hate has no home here.”
Clare Twomey, Executive Director of the York Human Relations Commission, emphasized the urgency of community action: “What happened downtown has shaken our city, but it also shows the importance of speaking out and showing up for one another. Our commission is here for anyone who has experienced discrimination, and we are committed to working with partners, like the PHRC and residents to ensure York is a safe place for all.”
Sheryl Meck, PHRC Civil Rights Outreach Division Director, who will moderate the discussion, said: “This town hall is about listening, healing, and making sure community voices guide the work ahead. We want to hear directly from residents about their concerns, their hopes, and their vision for a York where everyone belongs.”
The PHRC encourages all residents to attend, share their experiences, and learn about resources available to those who have faced discrimination.
Event Details:
- York City Hall, 101 S. George Street, York, PA 17401
- Wednesday, September 3, 2025
- 6:00–8:00 p.m.
For more information, please contact the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission at (717) 787-4410 or visit www.pa.gov/agencies/PHRC.
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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