FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 23, 2023
Acts of intimidation and discrimination should not be tolerated
Allegations of discrimination reported at a Dauphin County high school
Harrisburg, PA- The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) is aware of allegations of discriminations at the Lower Dauphin School District in Dauphin County. According to news reports, during a recent school board meeting, parents and students detailed intimidation and hostility, in school and on social media platforms, experienced by students of color, LGBTQ students, students with disabilities and others.
"As the state's civil rights enforcement agency, PHRC will not overlook its responsibility," said PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW. "I urge anyone who believes they have experienced discrimination or hate to contact the PHRC, and we will review the situation to see if any laws were violated. The PHRC also extends an offer to the Lower Dauphin School District to provide bias and cultural sensitivity training for staff and students. These types of trainings have been offered to schools in the past who have had similar challenges."
The PHRC promotes equal opportunity for all and enforces Pennsylvania's civil rights laws that protect people from unlawful discrimination and offers social justice and implicit bias training for administration, staff and students free of charge. To learn more, click here.
Additionally, anyone who believes they have experienced acts of discrimination or hate should file a complaint with the PHRC by calling 717-787-4410. Information and resources are also available at www.PHRC.pa.gov.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Amanda Brothman, Director of Communications
Ambrothman@pa.gov
717-856-5971