Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Diocese Apologizes After Auschwitz Gate Replica Appears on Pennsylvania School’s Halloween Float

Jewish Federation condemns the display, signaling a push for Holocaust education with the school.

Overview

  • Bishop Timothy C. Senior denounced the float imagery, apologized to the Jewish community, and said the approved design did not include the gate.
  • The diocese said it will review approval processes and collaborate with the Pennsylvania Jewish Coalition and the Anti-Defamation League on education.
  • Float designer Galen S. Shelly acknowledged adding the gate after a planned archway fell through, said he meant no harm, and issued an apology.
  • Metcalf Cleaning LLC, which volunteered to pull the float, apologized for not recognizing the phrase and said it will tighten participation procedures.
  • Local residents raised alarms on Facebook and demanded accountability, while the school and parade organizers offered limited public responses.