Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) will host a virtual “No Hate in Our State” Town Hall on Monday, January 5, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., focused on addressing antisemitism through a multifaceted, community-centered lens. The event will be held via Zoom and is open to the public.
As incidents of antisemitism continue to rise nationally and within local communities, this town hall will bring together policy leaders, educators, and community advocates to engage in open dialogue, share lived experiences, and identify strategies to confront hate, promote understanding, and strengthen solidarity across communities.
“Hate thrives in silence and division,” said Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW, PHRC Executive Director. “Through our “No Hate in Our State” town halls, PHRC seeks to break through that paralysis of silence and reaffirms its commitment to naming injustice, educating the public, and standing in solidarity with communities targeted by bias and discrimination. Addressing antisemitism is essential to protecting civil rights for all.”
The panel will feature:
- Alana Burman, Director of Policy, Intergovernmental Affairs, & Mediation, PHRC
- Adriel Resh, Director of Jewish Life and Culture, York JCC
- Rachel Singer, Director of Jewish Life, Franklin & Marshall College
- Deb Smith, External Program & Arts Coordinator, Hanover YMCA
The discussion will be moderated by Hector Luis Torres-Diaz, Civil Rights Outreach Coordinator at PHRC.
“Antisemitism is not an isolated issue, it is a civil and human rights concern that impacts the safety, dignity, and belonging of individuals and communities across Pennsylvania,” said Alana Burman, PHRC Director of Policy, Intergovernmental Affairs, & Mediation. “This town hall creates space for honest conversation, education, and collaborative problem-solving, which are essential to addressing hate in all its forms.”
PHRC leaders emphasized the importance of proactive community engagement and education in preventing discrimination and bias.
“Outreach and dialogue are critical tools in our civil rights work,” said Sheryl Meck, PHRC Civil Rights Outreach Director. “By convening different voices from different faith, education, and community organizations, we can better understand the roots of antisemitism and work collectively toward solutions grounded in respect and equity.”
Event Details:
What: PHRC “No Hate in Our State” Town Hall
When: Monday, January 5, 2026, 6-8 p.m.
Platform: Zoom
REGISTRATION:
The event is free and open to the public. Please register to attend.
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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