Pennsylvania Catholic Diocese Apologizes for Holocaust Symbol on Halloween Float

A Halloween parade float by St. Joseph Catholic School in Hanover, Pennsylvania, featured a replica of the Auschwitz concentration camp gate with the phrase "Arbeit Macht Frei," a notorious symbol of Nazi atrocities. Bishop Timothy Senior of the Diocese of Harrisburg expressed shock and condemnation, apologizing to the Jewish community and others hurt by the display, noting the original approved float design did not include this imagery. The incident caused distress among local residents, including those personally connected to Holocaust victims, and sparked strong reactions about the offensive and ignorant nature of the display. The Diocese pledged to review approval processes for parade floats and work with educational and Jewish organizations to prevent future occurrences and to promote understanding. The company that pulled the float also apologized for not recognizing the symbol's significance. This controversy has highlighted ongoing concerns about antisemitism and the need for greater awareness and sensitivity in community events.