Feb. 2, 2026
Mastriano Condemns Antisemitic Rally in Philadelphia, Urges Passage of Holocaust Education Bill
HARRISBURG — Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-33) ([link removed]) issued the following statement on the recent antisemitic rally in Philadelphia and the importance of passing Senate Bill 127 ([link removed]) , which requires age-appropriate Holocaust education in Pennsylvania schools.
“I strongly and unequivocally condemn the antisemitic rally held in Philadelphia. What took place was not peaceful protest or legitimate political expression — it was the open glorification of terrorism, explicit incitement to violence and the intimidation of an entire religious community.
“The event, organized by the Philly Palestine Coalition in Rittenhouse Square, promoted extremist ideology and invoked figures and slogans directly tied to Hamas, a U.S.-designated terrorist organization responsible for the brutal murder, rape and kidnapping of Israeli and American civilians.
“Accounts from the rally describe chants calling for violent uprising, speakers urging fear and intimidation, the display of terrorist symbols and grotesque imagery depicting people in nooses. Most disturbing were direct calls encouraging violent attacks — language that was deliberate, explicit and dangerous.
“At a time when antisemitism is rising at an alarming rate across our nation, events like this do nothing but stoke the flames of hate. Jewish communities are facing increased harassment, threats and violence simply because of who they are. Rhetoric that glorifies terrorism, calls for ‘martyrdom’ or dehumanizes Jews fuels extremism, emboldens bad actors and creates a climate of fear.
“This must stop. History teaches us that when antisemitism is tolerated, minimized or met with silence, it spreads. Silence in moments like this is not neutrality. It is acquiescence.
“I call on elected officials at every level of government to speak with clarity and conviction against what occurred. Pennsylvania must stand firmly and without hesitation against antisemitism, political violence and extremist hatred. Our values — and the safety of our communities — demand nothing less.
“This is why we must act now and pass Senate Bill 127 — the Holocaust Education Bill. Education is the most powerful tool we have to eliminate ignorance, foster understanding and prevent hatred from taking root. The bill ensures that future generations learn the truth about the Holocaust and the devastating consequences of unchecked antisemitism.
“This is not a Democrat or Republican issue — it is a human rights issue. Every Pennsylvanian deserves to live free from fear, harassment and hate. By teaching history accurately and comprehensively, we equip our children to reject extremism and embrace tolerance.
“I urge my colleagues in the General Assembly to join me in supporting Senate Bill 127. Let us send a clear message: Pennsylvania will not tolerate antisemitism, terrorism glorification or threats to our communities. Together, we can take meaningful action to protect our citizens and uphold the values that define us.”
DOUG MASTRIANO
33nd DISTRICT
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