View as WebpageMarch 2025 Newsletter

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Amanda,

Finding Optimism and Hope Amidst Radical Indifference: A Roadmap for Justice, Belonging and Humanity

In our current societal landscape, where radical indifference often feels pervasive and insurmountable, it’s crucial to cultivate a sense of optimism. Despair, defined as a loss of hope, can paralyze us and render us ineffective in our fight for justice and civil rights. However, amidst these challenges, there are pathways to resilience, and historical figures such as Fannie Lou Hamer, Ida B. Wells, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Dorothy Day, Noam Chomsky, and Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel offer profound insights into how we can maintain hope and fortitude in our struggle.

Understanding Despair and Its Dangers

Despair can be a powerful and consuming emotion, often leading to inaction. It is characterized by a sense of helplessness, where the enormity of injustice can make the individual feel insignificant. This feeling can often overshadow the possibility of change and the impact of collective action. When we look at the struggles for civil rights and human rights and social justice, we find that despair is a natural response to systemic oppression; however, it is essential not to be overwhelmed by it.

The Call to Action: Fighting for Justice



The fight for justice requires a concerted effort to transform despair into action. Fannie Lou Hamer, a civil rights leader, famously stated, “Nobody’s free until everybody’s free.” Her words remind us that our struggles are interconnected, and that hope exists in the collective pursuit of justice. Dr. King emphasized that “the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” This perspective highlights that while the fight may be long and arduous, progress is possible.

Dorothy Day, co-founder of the Catholic Worker Movement, dedicated her life to advocating for the marginalized. She believed that “the best thing to do with the best things in life is to give them away.” This philosophy encourages us to act with generosity of spirit, fostering community and solidarity in our struggles.

A Social Justice Roadmap

As we strive to remain optimistic, let’s look at how civil rights and human rights organizations can lead in this moment:

1. Building Community: Create safe spaces for dialogue and healing. Encourage participation in local organizations that prioritize community building and collective action.

2. Education and Advocacy: Equip individuals with knowledge about their rights and the mechanisms of social justice. Host workshops and discussions that promote understanding of systemic injustices.

3. Mobilization: Organize peaceful protests and campaigns that highlight critical issues. Encourage community members to get involved in local governance and advocacy initiatives.

4. Collaboration: Establish partnerships with diverse organizations to amplify voices and broaden the impact of our efforts. Noam Chomsky reminds us that “the responsibility of intellectuals is to speak the truth and expose lies.” Use your platform to uplift marginalized voices. I have attempted to do just that over the past 20 years. In addition, my grandmother encouraged me to before she died in 1990 to use my “life to alleviate the suffering of others.”

5. Spiritual Resilience: Draw inspiration from Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, who taught that “in a free society, some are guilty, but all are responsible.” Cultivate a sense of shared responsibility and moral obligation to advocate for justice.

Maturity and Fortitude in the Fight for Freedom

Maturity and fortitude are essential qualities in our pursuit of justice. Maturity involves recognizing the complexities of social issues and understanding that change often requires sustained effort over time. Fortitude, or the courage to confront challenges, is vital when faced with adversity. As we look to the legacy of leaders like Hamer, King, Day, Chomsky, and Heschel, we see that these qualities are not merely personal virtues; they are collective necessities in the fight for freedom.

In the face of radical indifference, our commitment to justice and civil rights at the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission must remain unwavering. By transforming despair into action and embracing community, education, and resilience, we can continue the legacy of those who fought before us. Let us not be paralyzed by despair but instead channel our energies into creating a more just and equitable Commonwealth and world.

In solidarity and hope, and my prayer is that this newsletter submission will aim to inspire action and resilience in the face of despair, drawing on the rich history of civil rights activism to guide us forward in these dark times that we have entered.

Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW

Executive Director

 Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ordered to pay more than $71,000 in disability discrimination case

Amanda Brothman

Communications Director

The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) has ordered the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) to pay a lump sum of $71,560.42 and continue to the pay the complainant lost wages for up to one year, in an employment discrimination case. This case was dual filed with the PHRC and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

PHRC determined PUC discriminated against the complainant based on their disabilities by failing to provide a reasonable accommodation of full-time telework and by making working conditions so intolerable that the complainant was forced to resign.

A public hearing was held October 16 and 17, 2024 in Dauphin County. The complainant participated virtually. The complainant was represented by PHRC Assistant Chief Counsels Stacy McNaney, Esq., and Kierstyn Marcucci, Esq., and PHRC Deputy Chief Counsel Morgan Williams, Esq. PUC was represented by Michael McAuliffe Miller, Esq., Renee Mattei Montgomery, Esq., and Theresa Davis, Esq.

"This decision reaffirms the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission's commitment to protecting the rights of employees with disabilities,” said PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW. “Employers have a legal and moral obligation to provide reasonable accommodations, and those that fail to do so will be held accountable under the law. We stand firm in our mission to ensure workplaces across the Commonwealth are free from discrimination."

In its final order of February 24, the Commission ordered:

1. PUC to pay the complainant a lump sum amount of $71,560.42, which represents mitigated lost earnings, lost retirement benefits, and 6 percent interest.
2. PUC to pay the complainant lost wages at the rate of $930 per week, less gross interim earnings reported by the complainant, from the date of their order and continuing for a period of one year.
3. the complainant to file semi-annual reports to PUC indicating the gross amount of earnings made during the previous six-month period, for a period of one year. If the amount the complainant earned is less than what they would have earned as an employee of PUC, PUC shall pay the amount of gross earnings they would have earned with PUC minus their gross earnings during the relevant six-month period.
4. The complainant to continue making good faith efforts to secure employment in mitigation of the damages.
5. PUC to cease and desist from denying reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities and from otherwise discriminating against employees with disabilities.
6. PUC to attend mandatory training provided by the PHRC or by an entity approved by the PHRC.
7. PUC to implement policies requiring individualized assessments of the essential functions of a position prior to denying requests for reasonable accommodations.

"This ruling sends a clear message that employers must uphold their obligations under the law

to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities,” said PHRC Chief Counsel Sandra Crawford. “The Commission’s decision reinforces the importance of individualized assessments and fair treatment in the workplace. We will continue to advocate for those whose rights have been violated and ensure that justice is served."

Continuing the Pursuit of Equity: Education as the Cornerstone of Justice and Democracy

Desireé Chang

Director of Education & Outreach 

As we navigate the complexities of today’s world, it is important to remember that the pursuit of equity and social justice is not just a goal - it’s a necessity for the health and vitality of our society. In challenging times, our commitment to fairness, especially in the realm of education, is essential. Education is not only a fundamental right; it is the cornerstone of success in American democracy. It empowers individuals, strengthens communities, and provides the foundation for a more just society.

The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) is at the forefront of this ongoing work, addressing systemic discrimination and striving to ensure that every Pennsylvanian has access to the same opportunities, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or socioeconomic background. This mission is vitally important to our education system. It is in our schools that children form the knowledge and skills they need to contribute meaningfully to our democracy, and it is in our schools where we must ensure that equity is not a mere ideal but a lived reality.

At the heart of the American dream is the belief that education is a pathway to opportunity and success. In a democracy, education empowers individuals to think critically, engage in the political process, and participate in shaping the future of their communities and country. When children are denied access to quality education based on their race, socioeconomic status, or other characteristics, it undermines the very principles that this nation was built upon of the U.S. Constitution that dictate equality and justice.

It is critical, then, that we ensure all children—regardless of their background—receive an equitable education. The pressure to address educational disparities has never been greater. If we are to fulfill the promise of a just society, we must tackle these inequities head-on, ensuring that every child has access to the resources, support, and opportunities they need to succeed.

History provides powerful examples of how educational advocacy can drive change, even in the face of significant adversity. One of the most prominent examples is Brown v. Board of Education, the landmark 1954 Supreme Court case that declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional. This decision was the result of years of advocacy, particularly by civil rights organizations like the NAACP, which fought tirelessly to end the separate and unequal education system. Despite the entrenched resistance to integration, this case marked a pivotal moment in the struggle for educational equity, signaling that the pursuit of justice in education could no longer be ignored.

The fight for equitable education continued with the advocacy of leaders like Thurgood Marshall, who worked to break down the barriers that kept African American children from receiving the same quality of education as their white peers. These efforts were not without tremendous difficulty and resistance, but through persistent legal action, grassroots organizing, and a steadfast belief in the power of education, these advocates helped reshape the landscape of American education.

In more recent history, the fight for educational equity has continued with initiatives aimed at closing the achievement gap and addressing disparities in school funding. One such example is the Pennsylvania School Funding Lawsuit, which brought attention to the inequitable distribution of resources in Pennsylvania public schools, particularly in poorer districts. Advocates argued that the state's funding system violated the constitutional right to a sound basic education. Other states such as Ohio and New York led similar efforts through litigation and public advocacy, resulting in their states having to provide more equitable funding, illustrating the power of collective action in the fight for educational justice.

Today, the fight for educational equity continues in classrooms across Pennsylvania and the nation. The pressure to ensure that every child has access to high-quality education is as urgent as ever. Our schools must be places where children are not only taught the basics but are also empowered to engage with the world around them in meaningful ways. They must be places where students can learn to respect one another, value diversity, and develop the skills necessary to contribute to a diverse democracy rooted in justice and equality.

The PHRC’s work in addressing discrimination and promoting equity in education is an essential part of this ongoing effort. But it is not enough to simply address discriminatory practices—we must ensure that all children, especially those who have been historically marginalized, receive the resources and support they need to succeed.

As we reflect on the work ahead, let us draw inspiration from the advocacy and courage of those who have fought for educational justice in the past. Their resilience and vision serve as a reminder that, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, progress is possible. By continuing to advocate for equitable education, we honor the principles of fairness, civility, and opportunity that are central to American democracy.

Together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to achieve their fullest potential—and in doing so, strengthen the fabric of our society for generations to come.

Understanding the President's Executive Orders

Robert Taylor, Esq.

Assistant Chief Counsel

It might be tough to believe but the current President and his administration have only been in office for a little over one month. I am sure for some of you it probably feels much longer. Despite the relatively short amount of time in office there has already been a flurry of actions that have taken place, so much so that it can be quite difficult to keep track of everything. Much of the news has surrounded the executive orders that the President has signed, 68 of them as of the date of writing, with more to come. But it is important to understand exactly what an executive order is and what and what they cannot do.

The power to issue an executive order is rooted in Article II of the Constitution which vests the president with executive power over the government, including the obligation to “take care that the laws be faithfully executed.” Executive orders are written directives, signed by the president, that orders the government to take specific actions to ensure “the laws be faithfully executed.” It is important to note that executive orders cannot override federal laws and statutes. Statutes have to be passed by Congress and signed by the president. The president cannot write a new statute; however, an executive order can tell federal agencies how to implement a statute.

Can executive orders be challenged or stopped? Yes, they can, Congress can enact a law that reverses what the president has done, this is highly unlikely in a situation where one party is control of the House, Senate, and the White House, or a Court can hold that an executive order is unlawful, if it violates the Constitution or a federal statute.

As I previously stated the President has issued 68 executive orders (as of right now) and some of those have already found their way into the Courts. Specifically, two of the more controversial executive orders have already been temporarily blocked by the courts. Order 14160 “Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship,” which seeks to end birthright citizenship (which is enshrined by the 14^th Amendment of the Constitution), has been temporarily blocked by Federal Courts in Washington, Maryland, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. Order 14187 “Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation,” which seeks to restrict access to gender-affirming care for people under the age of 19, has been temporarily blocked by Federal Courts in Maryland and Washington. 

It is likely that these Orders will end up in front of the Supreme Court, who will ultimately determine their constitutionality. There are other executive orders that are being challenged (federal funding freezes, DOGE’s access to government information systems, and the firing of federal workers) and will also likely end up before the Supreme Court. It is also likely that other existing orders, as well as future orders, will be challenged in the courts. So, it is important to remember that just because the president signs an executive order, it does not make it law.

Loneliness Epidemic and Seasonal Affective Disorder

Gloria Richardson

Harrisburg Regional Office

It’s that time of the year, where we have just come out of the highs and joys of the Christmas season and New Years. While I hope it was high time for everyone, not all people had a joyous Christmas season. In this job we deal with a lot of people, and we never know what someone if going through. You might speak to a Complainant on a case that calls you repeatedly to speak about the same questions or they repeatedly ask for help to do task that you explained previously. I often noticed that Senior Complainants called more during the winter month. They knew I would answer the phone. Sometimes they covered the same topic we discussed before. I have a Complainant who still calls me once or twice a month, but only when her daughter is at work. This led me to looking at these patterns and what did I notice? The people appeared to be lonely and maybe a little depressed.

I recently saw a report that American has a loneliness epidemic. Per a report from Statista.com, in 2021, 31% of all US adult reported feeling lonely. That increased in 2022 to 25%. It was report that this was exacerbated by Covid, but this was an issue prior to Covid. New polling by USNEW.com reported that in 2024, among U.S. adults, about one in three said they feel lonely at least once a week. Studies shows that these feeling of loneliness increase during this time of the year leading to depression.

You may know someone who only feels lonely and depression at this time of the year. When I was growing up, we called it the winter blues. Did you know that there is an official name for it? It’s called Seasonal Affective Disorder(SAD). SAD is a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons and begins and ends at about the same times every year. Most people with SAD have symptoms that start in the fall and continue into the winter months. It taps their energy and causes them to feel moody. These symptoms often resolve during the spring and summer months, you know when you are out getting sun and having fun with others. It is thought that shorter days and less daylight may cause a chemical change in the brain leading to the symptoms of depression.

These are the most common symptoms of SAD:

• Increased sleep and daytime drowsiness
• Loss of interest and pleasure in activities formerly enjoyed
• Social withdrawal and increased sensitivity to rejection
• Grouchiness and anxiety
• Feelings of guilt and hopelessness
• Excessive tiredness (fatigue)
• Decreased ability to focus

There are the things you can do for yourself or to help others ease symptoms:

• Get help. If you think you may be depressed, see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Remember if this is you or a family member, you can use SEAP by calling 1-800-692-7459 (for TTY service, dial 711, then 1-800-692-7459). By speaking with a SEAP Specialist, you can receive help with provider searches and benefits exploration. You can also visit liveandworkwell.com, access code: Pennsylvania, to access resources and to learn about SEAP benefits and services at your convenience. 
• Set realistic goals in light of the depression. Don’t take on too much. Break large tasks into small ones, set priorities, and do what you can as you can.
• Try to be with other people and confide in someone. It is often better than being alone and secretive.
• Do things that make you feel better. Going to a movie, gardening, or taking part in religious, social, or other activities may help. Doing something nice for someone else can also help you feel better.
• Get regular exercise.
• Expect your mood to get better slowly, not right away. Feeling better takes time.
• Eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
• Stay away from alcohol and illegal drugs. These can make depression worse.
• Delay big decisions until the depression has lifted. Don't make a big change right away, such as getting a new job or getting married or divorced. Talk it over first with others who know you well. They will likely have a more objective view of your situation.
• People don't often snap out of a depression. But they can feel a little better day by day.
• Try to be patient and focus on the positives. This may help replace the negative thinking that is part of the depression. The negative thoughts will go away as your depression responds to treatment.
• Let your family and friends help you. Your PHRC family is here for you.

I hope you find this information to be helpful for anyone you know who maybe experiencing loneliness and SAD.  

Upcoming PHRC Events

Rally Against Workplace Abuse (Honoring Dr. Antoinette "Bonnie" Candia-Bailey)

• Tuesday, March 18, 2025
• 2-3 p.m.
• Pennsylvania Capitol Main Rotunda
• RSVP here.

Navigating Today’s Challenges and Building a Fairer Tomorrow

• Tuesday, April 8, 2025
• 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown, 600 Commonwealth Place, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
• Featuring Hill Harper, Actor, Author, Entrepreneur 
• Join the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission for a dynamic and collaborative event bringing together key housing stakeholders including community leaders, housing professionals, social service providers, fair housing partners, and others. This conference will explore the critical issues surrounding housing opportunity including:
• Navigating the Reasonable Accommodation process
• Investigating Disability-Related Housing Discrimination cases
• Understanding the Racial Wealth Gap
• Meeting the housing challenges faced by Immigrants
• Fostering landlord-tenant relationships
• And more!
• Register today!

PHRC Virtual Diversity Speaks

Recruitment and Retention of Police Officers, Threats in the Community and Active Threat Assessment, 21st Century Policing

• Thursday, March 20, 2025
• 12:00-1:00
• Featuring: Garth Warner, Chief of Police, Derry Township Police Department in Hershey, PA
• Register for this Microsoft TEAMS webinar. 

Fair Housing Empower Hour

Fair Housing For Families

Learn about housing protections against discrimination for families with children under the age of 18. 

• Wednesday, March 26, 2025
• 12:00-1:00 p.m.
• Register for this Microsoft TEAMS webinar

PHRC on the Road: Building Pennsylvania's Beloved Community

Cameron, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, McKean, and Potter Counties

• Wednesday, March 19
• 12:00-2:00 p.m.
• Life and Independence for Today, 503 East Arch Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 (virtual option too)
• Register to attend

Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Lawrence, Mercer, and Westmoreland Counties

• Wednesday, April 2
• 12:00-2:00 p.m.
• Disability Options Network, 1400 South Braddock Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15218 (virtual option too)
• Register to attend.

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