(PHILADELPHIA, PA, 01/11/2025) – The Philadelphia chapter of Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Philadelphia today called for a thorough hate crime investigation after a noose was reportedly found attached to the computer of a black female Allentown City Hall employee.
Media reports note that the alleged incident took place inside the Community and Economic Development office on Friday morning.
Several Allentown council members condemned the incident and Allentown police said the incident is being investigated. Media reports note that the individual who was targeted had previously filed a complaint with the Equal Employment and Opportunity Commission (EEOC) regarding racism and discrimination and was scheduled to have a hearing a day before the incident.
In a statement, CAIR- Philadelphia executive director Ahmet Tekelioglu, a former Allentown resident, said:
“We are frustrated that such a vile sign of anti-Black racism could reportedly find its way into the halls of Allentown City Hall. We call on Allentown police to thoroughly investigate the incident and consider a hate crime probe. It’s additionally troubling that the alleged incident reportedly took place on the heels of an EEOC hearing. We call on the City of Allentown to take this report seriously and establish a clear plan to ensure the safety of all of its employees.”
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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CONTACT: CAIR-Philadelphia Executive Director Dr. Ahmet Tekelioglu; atekelioglu@cair.com; 617-401-5397
