HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania lawmakers have introduced legislation to create a state grant program supporting Holocaust education and anti-hate initiatives, expanding funding opportunities for schools, museums, libraries, and community organizations as concerns about antisemitism and other forms of hate continue to grow.
State Reps. Tarik Khan, D-Philadelphia, Ben Waxman, D-Philadelphia, and Mary Jo Daley, D-Montgomery, said the proposal would establish a Holocaust and Anti-Hate Education Grant Program administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency.
The program would provide grants ranging from $500 to $10,000 for educational programming focused on the Holocaust, religious, racial and ethnic persecution, and efforts to combat hate.
Eligible recipients would include schools, museums, cultural institutions, libraries, and community organizations. Funding could be used for curriculum development, educator training, exhibits, field trips, guest speakers, public programming, and community engagement initiatives.
The legislation comes as policymakers and advocacy groups have increasingly focused on educational efforts aimed at addressing antisemitism, Islamophobia, and other forms of bias through historical instruction and public awareness programs.
“The Holocaust stands as one of history’s most horrifying examples of evil and a reminder of where hatred and dehumanization can lead when left unchecked,” Khan said. “As antisemitism, Islamophobia and other forms of hate continue to rise, we have a responsibility to stand with communities that are feeling vulnerable and targeted.”
Waxman said Holocaust education remains a critical tool for addressing contemporary forms of hate.
“The stories and experiences of Holocaust survivors continue to provide powerful lessons for new generations,” he said. “Education is one of our strongest tools for combating antisemitism and ensuring that future generations understand the consequences of hatred, bigotry and indifference.”
Daley said the legislation is intended to help institutions preserve historical lessons and strengthen civic engagement.
“We cannot assume that future generations will learn these lessons on their own,” she said. “Museums, libraries, schools and community organizations help bring history to life and remind us why respect, civility and peace matter.”
If enacted, the program would support efforts to expand educational opportunities related to the Holocaust and the consequences of religious, racial, and ethnic persecution across Pennsylvania.
The legislation has been introduced in the House and awaits further consideration.
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