View as WebpageJuly 2025 Newsletter

Hello

Amanda,

Leading with Integrity in Times of Adversity 

What does it mean to be a leader when faced with adversity and to embrace the responsibility of doing what is right. I always look to the teachings and lessons of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., during times of adversity. Dr. King, who profoundly stated, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." These words resonate today more than ever, as we confront the challenges of our time. 

Dr. King's philosophy of justice reminds us that we are all interconnected—our actions have the power to uplift or undermine the common good of humanity. As leaders, it is imperative to keep hope alive, not just for our individual communities, but for all of humanity. We are called to fight against injustice, echoing Dr. King’s message that the struggle for civil rights is not merely a political issue, but a moral one deeply rooted in our shared values. In this context, organizations like the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission play a vital role. Our tireless efforts to eradicate discrimination and promote equality are essential in the ongoing fight for justice. As leaders, we must support and engage one another to bring about meaningful change. It is our moral obligation to stay the course, advocating for the rights of those who are marginalized and ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.

As I reflect on what it takes to lead effectively, I know that you must cultivate essential traits like humility, integrity, ethics, and a strong moral compass even when those that you are charged to lead don’t display with any of the aforementioned. These characteristics ground leaders in our decision-making, guiding us through turbulent waters. A humble leader recognizes the power of listening, learns from others, and acknowledges their own limitations. Integrity means standing firm in your values and principles as a leader, especially when faced with opposition.

In this fight for justice, leaders must develop a clear and actionable plan. I propose five vital themes that can guide leaders efforts in combating systemic racism in America:

1. Education and Awareness: Promote educational programs that increase awareness of systemic racism and its effects on our communities. Knowledge is power, and informed citizens are better equipped to challenge injustice.
2. Community Engagement: Encourage community involvement through dialogue and collaboration. Establish platforms for open conversations, ensuring that diverse voices contribute to the narrative of change.
3. Policy Reform: Advocate for policies that address inequities in justice, housing, education, and healthcare. We must hold our leaders accountable and ensure that legislation reflects our commitment to equality.
4. Support for Marginalized Voices: Empower those who have been silenced and marginalized. Create opportunities for minority leaders to share their experiences, making space for those perspectives in decision-making processes.
5. Persistent Activism: Foster a culture of activism that does not wane with time. Encourage individuals to stay engaged in the fight for justice, recognizing that persistence is essential to transforming our society.

As we embark upon our 70^th Anniversary as a Commission in October, let us remember Dr. King’s belief in the urgent need for justice and equality. It is our duty to carry this torch forward, illuminating the path toward a better future for all. Let us lead with compassion, conviction, and unwavering resolve. Together, we can build a world where justice prevails, and every individual is treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW

Executive Director

The Value of Mediation and Conflict Resolution: An Outside Perspective on the Work of the PHRC

Linnea Mayo, Policy Intern

Over the course of my time at the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC), I’ve had the opportunity to observe various mediations and speak with experienced mediators about their valuable work. Meditation consists of a neutral third-party facilitating communication between two disputing parties. This happens in a joint session, either in person or virtually, where the Complainant and Respondent are split into separate rooms. The mediator relays information, offers, and counter offers until a deal is made.

The mediator’s role is not to guide the content but facilitate the conversation, which requires careful preparation and facilitation. Mediation services are a voluntary option for people to resolve issues related to education, employment, housing, commercial property, and public accommodation disputes.

Before the mediation session begins, mediators conduct a pre-mediation meeting with each party. This is when the mediator takes the time to meet with both parties beforehand to set expectations, review the process and paperwork, and ensure everyone enters the mediation prepared to be flexible. Mediation is not appropriate for all cases and requires both parties to understand their underlying interests. Both parties need to be willing to walk away from the case and cannot enter the settlement unwilling to negotiate.

Mediation is a deeply personalized process that engages beyond the immediate facts of the dispute. Importantly, mediators strive to understand each party’s unique perspectives and emotional context because this allows them to tailor the process to the specific needs of the case at hand.

On paper, successful mediation is when a settlement agreement is made and sent to both parties to review. The agreement is signed by all parties and finalized once the term of the settlement happens. However, successful mediation most importantly means both parties had their voices heard and their opinions listened to throughout the process. Mediation allows for the unique opportunity for the Complainant to have an acknowledgement of their experiences that they would not have had through another process. It prioritizes that the Complainants are not forced into a settlement but rather make the decision on your own. As Christopher Young, a mediator at PHRC, describes: each mediation as an opportunity to win or learn.

What makes mediation truly unique is its flexibility. Participants are not constrained by rigid legal remedies, but instead they are free to co-create solutions that are tailored to their specific needs and interests. Prior to mediation, the complaint provides an initial resolution proposal, which often involves both economic and non-economic proposals that are discussed throughout the mediation.

Confidentiality is another major benefit because it allows both parties the freedom to speak openly without fear of public scrutiny or legal repercussions. Importantly, mediations are provided at no cost to participants, removing financial barriers that often prevent people from seeking help resolving issues.

What struck me most while observing mediations and discussions with mediators is how mediators create a space that feels safe and balanced. The mediators not only keep the discussion productive and ensure both parties are heard and respected, but they also give participants control over the conversation. A powerful takeaway is how communication can heal. I’ve watched people shift from more defensive postures to moments of vulnerability and understanding throughout mediation. The parties are provided with an agency to decide what resolution looks like and how it works for them.

PHRC’s mediators describe how some of the most rewarding aspects of the work are allowing space for communication, preservation of relationships, and the educational opportunities it opens for both parties. One of the most valuable things I observed from the mediators is how they engage with the parties on a person level. They take the time to get to know them not just as someone in conflict, but as people with lived experiences and values that deserve to be recognized. The mediators build rapports to help participants feel seen, and while they remain strictly neutral and do not advocate for either side, their role supports each party in articulating their perspectives clearly. In doing so, mediation allows for a sense of relief knowing both parties were given the chance to speak, be heard, and choose how to move on. This allows for genuine human connection, where mutual respect and understanding can begin to take place even amidst conflict.

In Pennsylvania, mediation has become an increasingly important avenue for resolving bias conflicts and has gained traction not just in community disputes but also professional settings like law, employment, housing and education. This growing use and application speak to mediation’s efficacy and efficiency. More people are recognizing the benefits of alternative dispute resolution such as mediation, especially in situations where preserving the relationship is just as important as resolving the issue. 

Time to Recharge

Waydee Rivera

Supervisior, Harrisburg Regional Office

In June, we received a reminder of our vision, mission, and values, which prompted me to pause and realize that we are halfway through the year.

Like everyone else, my year has been non-stop, filled with busy schedules and constant demands. I took a moment to reflect on areas where I need to make changes to improve, while also recognizing some progress. I believe that taking time for self-reflection provides valuable insights that help guide us both personally and professionally. Reflecting on oneself is essential for personal growth and emotional well-being.

I think mid-year is a great time to take a breather, recharge, and check in on your goals. As we know, PHRC has strong missions and visions driven by values such as equality, integrity, respect, and teamwork. When we engage in regular self-reflection, we're more likely to stay aligned with those values and contribute to a workplace culture that supports them.

I just completed the Martin Luther King Leadership Development Institute, and in one of the sessions, we discussed how employee self-reflection is more than a personal exercise; it is a strategic advantage. When employees take time to assess their action goals in alignment with the organization's purpose, they become more engaged, intentional, and effective in their roles. Employees benefit from a workforce that is committed and energized to help fulfill the mission and bring the organizational vision to life.

Therefore, encouraging self-reflection isn't only beneficial for employees, but also helpful for the business. This awareness fosters better communication, encourages stronger collaboration, and leads to more effective conflict resolution, all of which are essential for maintaining a healthy and productive workplace.

As mentioned earlier, mid-year is a great time for self-reflection, and with summer here, it's also the perfect time to recharge. Hopefully, many of you will be able to take a vacation or enjoy a few days off to take in the warm weather. I look forward to seeing how we each bring our shared vision, mission, and values to life.

🌟 July is Disability Pride Month! ♿

This month, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of people with disabilities—while also recognizing the ongoing fight for accessibility, inclusion, and equal rights.

At PHRC we are committed to breaking down barriers and protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities under the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Disability rights are human rights. Pride is power.

Third Annual disABILITY Conference Happening This Month!

Join the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission for an impactful day of discussion around individuals with disabilities and technology. 

This hybrid event will be held in person in Harrisburg, PA as well as online. We have a fantastic day planned, looking at the challenges and opportunities that emerging technologies present for individuals with disabilities. You can expect to learn about innovations in assistive technology, disability rights in PA, building a disability-inclusive AI ecosystem, the Commonwealth of PA's work to improve digital accessibility and more! 

There will also be opportunities to connect with new partners and learn about services and programs that are available throughout PA.

NASW-PA Chapter is a co-sponsor of this workshop. 6 CEs will be awarded for completion of this course. NASW has been designated as a pre-approved provider of professional continuing education for social workers (Section 47.36), Marriage and Family Therapist (Section 48.36) and Professional Counselors (Section 49.36) by the PA State Board of Social Workers, Marriage & Family Therapists and Professional Counselors.

The event is FREE to attend. However, participants must register! Participant registration is now open. Go to the link to register.

Advisory Council News

Big news from Berks County!

The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission is proud to announce the reestablishment of the Berks County Advisory Council! The council held its inaugural meeting in June and was joined by PHRC Vice-Chair Raquel Yiengst.

Congratulations to our newly appointed officers:

• Tom Herman, Chair
• Pastor Evelyn W. Morrison, MBA, Vice Chair
• Brian Adams, Secretary

The Advisory Council to the PHRC plays a vital role in promoting equity, inclusion, and community engagement. If you live in Berks County and are passionate about human rights, we want YOU to join us!

Learn more about this council and all of our councils and get involved.

Want to learn more about the Philadelphia Advisory Council to the PHRC? Join us for an interest meeting and discover opportunities to get involved with the Philadelphia Advisory Council and help shape our community's future.

• Wednesday, July 16
• 6:00-7:30 p.m.
• PHRC Philadelphia Regional Office, 110 N. 8th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
• Register to attend.

Advisory Council Summit

Join PHRC Advisory Council members from across the state, as well as PHRC staff and leadership to connect and collaborate. We want to celebrate the impact that Advisory Councils are making throughout Pennsylvania and strategize about the urgent issues facing our communities.

• Monday, August 18, 2025
• 9:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
• Harrisburg University of Science and Technology
• Register to attend.

Upcoming PHRC Events

Virtual Lunch & Learn

Curiosity in Action: Honoring the Everyday Practices that Support Trauma-Responsive Work

• Tuesday, July 29, 2025
• 12:00-1:00 p.m.
• Register for this Microsoft TEAMS webinar
• Featuring Dr. Jessica Reinhardt, Professor of Practice Psychological Program Coordinator, College of Education Education and Human Development, Temple University

Fair Housing Empower Hour

Assistance Animals

• Wednesday, July 30
• 12:00-1:00 p.m.
• Register for this month's virtual training

Rural communities face a unique set of challenges in ensuring equal housing opportunities. Learn more about barriers, resources, and fair housing partnerships in rural communities.

Community Meetings- PHRC Overview

The Civil Rights Division is scheduled to travel across the state to connect with the community and provide a PHRC Overview. For anyone that is interested in attending one of the following events, please check out the PHRC website and register. You will have an opportunity to connect with the Civil Rights Division and learn about the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission.

Lancaster Community Meeting- PHRC Overview

• Wednesday, July 23
• 12:00-2:00 p.m.
• Disability Empowerment Center, 941 Wheatland Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17603 
• Register to attend

Erie Community Meeting- PHRC Overview

• Wednesday, July 30
• 12:00-2:00 p.m.
• Community Resources for Independence & Voices for Independence, 1432 Wilkins Rd, Erie PA 16505 
• Register to attend

SAVE THE DATE!

PHRC invites you to save the date for the 70th Anniversary Gala on October 25, 6-9 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg. More information is forthcoming.

In case you missed it…

Our recent Virtual Lunch & Learn, “Product of Your Environment,” featuring the inspiring Robert McKenzie, is now available to watch! Robert—CEO/Founder of SKU Inc. and QEYC, VP of Marketing and A&R at The Briefcase Group, and investor—shared powerful insights on entrepreneurship, community impact, and turning challenges into opportunities.

Watch the full recording on our YouTube page.

We had a powerful conversation during “Here to Hear: Listening to and Working with Our LGBTQ+ Communities in PA” featuring Ashleigh Strange, Executive Director of the Governor's Advisory Commission on LGBTQ Affairs.

From lived experiences to policy insights, this session sheds light on the ongoing work to build equity, understanding, and allyship across Pennsylvania.

Catch the full recording on our YouTube page and be part of the conversation.

The recording of June's Fair Housing Empower Hour: "Overcoming Barriers to Fair Housing in Rural Communities” is now available!

This important conversation highlights the unique housing challenges rural Pennsylvanians face—and the strategies we can use to promote equity and access for all.

Watch the full session on our YouTube page.

Meet the 2025 PHRC Summer Interns

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