HARRISBURG, PA — Residents in Pennsylvania’s rural communities will see expanded access to civil rights resources and outreach efforts following the launch of a new Rural & Civic Engagement Division by the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission on Thursday.
What This Means for You
- Expanded outreach and resources in rural communities across Pennsylvania
- More opportunities to engage with state civil rights officials locally
- Increased awareness of protections related to housing, employment, and education
The new division is intended to strengthen connections between the commission and rural residents by increasing awareness of civil rights protections and improving access to services that address discrimination in areas such as housing, employment, education, and public accommodations.
Expanding Access Across Rural Communities
Commission officials said the initiative will focus on building relationships with local civic leaders, community organizations, and residents in rural regions, where access to state services can be limited by geography.
PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter said the effort is designed to meet residents where they are and improve communication between communities and state officials.
“Our responsibility is to serve all Pennsylvanians,” Lassiter said, adding that the division will work collaboratively with communities to protect civil rights and promote unity statewide.
PHRC Chair Joel Bolstein said the initiative reflects the agency’s position that geographic location should not limit access to civil rights protections.
“This initiative reflects the Commission’s belief that geography should never be a barrier to understanding or exercising one’s rights,” Bolstein said.
State Officials Emphasize Rural Impact
State officials from multiple agencies participated in the launch event at the Capitol, pointing to the economic and social importance of rural communities.
Cindy Dunn, secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, said the effort addresses a critical gap in service delivery.
“Rural communities power Pennsylvania, and I applaud PHRC for taking the important step to prioritize serving the needs of these communities,” Dunn said.
Heidi Secord, deputy secretary for farm, food and market access at the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, also highlighted the need to support agricultural and rural populations across the state.
Ongoing Engagement Planned
The commission said the division will lead statewide engagement efforts throughout 2026, including listening sessions, community roundtables, and partnerships with civic organizations in rural counties.
Caroline Griffin, director of the new division, said the initiative is centered on ensuring rural communities have a voice in shaping policy and access to services.
“This division was created with a simple guiding principle: every community deserves to be heard,” Griffin said.
About the Commission
The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission enforces state laws that prohibit discrimination and promote equal opportunity. The agency investigates complaints involving employment, housing, education, and public accommodations.
More information about the commission and its programs is available at www.pa.gov/PHRC.
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