Governor Josh Shapiro Calls for Urgent Action as Congressional Probe Uncovers Antisemitism in Philadelphia Schools
PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — Governor Josh Shapiro has issued a stern call for the School District of Philadelphia to confront and eradicate antisemitism within its classrooms, following revelations from a congressional investigation that has spotlighted a disturbing rise in anti-Jewish incidents in the city’s public schools. The probe, initiated by the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, is examining allegations that the district, the eighth largest in the United States, is plagued by a hostile environment toward Jewish students, including claims that some teachers have propagated antisemitic rhetoric and that the district has permitted antisemitic walkouts that isolate Jewish pupils.
In a statement conveyed by his spokesperson Rosie Lapowsky, Governor Shapiro emphasized, “antisemitism and this kind of hateful rhetoric is unacceptable and has no place in Pennsylvania — especially not in our classrooms.” She added that the governor expects the district to “take very seriously” the issue and act decisively to protect students from such discrimination.
The congressional inquiry was prompted by reports collected since October 7, 2023, which allege a pervasive anti-Jewish climate within Philadelphia schools. According to the committee’s letter, obtained by Fox News Digital, the district has failed to meet its obligations under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in programs receiving federal funding. The letter further notes that despite a federally mandated corrective action plan instituted in December 2024 by the U.S. Department of Education, antisemitic incidents have continued to proliferate.
Fox News Digital’s investigation included interviews with parents and educators within the School District of Philadelphia, as well as review of internal communications from groups such as Philadelphia Educators for Palestine. This group reportedly circulated documents defending Palestinian resistance, which critics argue includes violent acts, raising concerns about the nature of the rhetoric being endorsed within some educational circles.
Philadelphia, often called the City of Brotherly Love, has long been celebrated for its cultural diversity and historic significance. However, the recent surge in antisemitic incidents threatens to undermine the inclusive values the city espouses. The situation has drawn national attention, prompting calls for accountability and reform.
Governor Shapiro’s intervention aligns with broader federal efforts to combat antisemitism in educational settings. The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights actively monitors compliance with anti-discrimination laws, and the congressional investigation reflects heightened scrutiny on school districts nationwide.
For more information on federal civil rights protections and the ongoing investigation, see the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce. The governor’s office has also urged the district to collaborate with organizations dedicated to fostering safe and respectful learning environments, such as the Anti-Defamation League.
As the investigation continues, the spotlight remains on Philadelphia’s public schools to demonstrate meaningful progress in addressing and preventing antisemitism, ensuring that all students can learn free from hate and discrimination.
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