No hate in our town

Statewide action for unity in our communities

Lately, we've been hearing a lot of Pennsylvanians scapegoating undocumented immigrants. Their words and actions are dividing our communities and making many people – immigrants and citizens alike – feel fearful and rejected. Hate breeds hate, and it’s time for those of us who recognize the valuable contributions of immigrants – our friends, neighbors, families, US! - to speak out.

On September 1, 2007, while supporters of Hazleton mayor Lou Barletta and his anti-immigrant ordinance rally in Harrisburg to breed more fear and distrust of immigrants, we will offer a voice for unity. A "No Hate in Our Town" press conference will be held in Harrisburg by a coalition of groups to speak out against hate and in support of all workers.

Join those in Pennsylvania who are working to end the divisiveness caused by these anti-immigration ordinances. There is no time like the present to begin working together to achieve equality of rights for all, and also to appreciate and respect others – not only those who are most like us – but also those who are most different from us.

But we need more than a show of unity in Harrisburg.

Leading up to and over Labor Day weekend, we're asking communities and neighborhoods, families and friends across Pennsylvania to come together to say, loud and clear, "No Hate in Our Town." Gathering at our BBQs and parties, our town halls and local parks we can make our voices heard.

Here's what you can do anytime between now and Labor Day:

1) Print or make a sign that says: "No Hate in Our Town" and another sign that says the name of your town or community: "Anytown, PA";

2) Take a picture with a group of friends, neighbors, and/or family holding the signs

3) Send your photo to: education@aclupa.org by Sep. 4. (If you can send the photo before Sep. 1, we'll put it up on the website in time for our press conference in Harrisburg.)

We'll put your photo up on a website for everyone to see. If possible, have people in the photo wear a white ribbon or white clothing as a sign of solidarity.

Thank you for showing your support. We look forward to joining you now and throughout the Labor Day weekend to say, "No Hate in Our Town!" And let's continue to work together to make sure that Pennsylvania stays a welcoming place for all people.

Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission
Pennsylvania Jewish Coalition
Pennsylvania Network of Unity Coalitions
Pennsylvania Immigration & Citizenship Coalition
American Civil Liberties Union of Pennsylvania