On the night of January 3, an act of vandalism involving spray‑painted racial slurs and a swastika — considered a symbol of antisemitism — was committed on the exterior walls of Roxborough High School in Philadelphia.
Kristin Williams, the school’s principal, immediately reported the incident, and the crime is still under police investigation.
In response, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) organized a community meeting titled “No Hate in Our State” on February 10 at the Roxborough Library. The event was moderated by Sheryl Meck, PHRC’s Director of Civil Rights Outreach.
The invited panelists were:
- Tarik Khan, State Representative for District 194
- Councilmember Curtis Jones, Jr., representing the 4th City Council District
- Andrew Goretsky, Senior Regional Director of the Anti‑Defamation League (ADL) in Philadelphia
- Amber Harris, PHRC Regional Director for Philadelphia
- Joseph Green II, PHRC Chief Counsel
Thirty‑five people registered to attend virtually, and more than twenty participated in person, including Captain John Moroney of the 5th Police District, which covers Roxborough and Manayunk.
PHRC investigates complaints of discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public accommodations
Among the key points highlighted during the presentation were the coalition efforts to provide students with the support they needed after the incident, as well as the immediate response from the Police Department, the School District, public officials, the Anti‑Defamation League, residents, and activists.
Attorney Green explained that while the First Amendment protects the free flow of ideas, “in the case of hate expression, it becomes a crime that is not protected by the First Amendment, and the person can be prosecuted for that offense.”
The panelists agreed with Attorney Green that the home is where love can be taught instead of hate, and that being part of a diverse community where all people are respected is essential. They also emphasized the importance of addressing the trauma caused by hate crimes.
Amber Harris directed her message to the youth: “As individuals, we must do what is right regardless of how a crowd behaves. Stand firm in moral principles.”
For his part, Andrew Goretsky encouraged children and teenagers to be mindful of the messages they share on social media.
The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission enforces state laws that prohibit discrimination and promote equal opportunity for all people, regardless of immigration status.
Anyone who experiences discrimination may file a complaint by calling 717‑787‑4410.
Roxborough is a neighborhood in northwest Philadelphia, located along the Schuylkill River and bordered by Manayunk and East Falls.