Harrisburg Diocese Apologizes for Auschwitz Gate Replica on School Halloween Float

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Harrisburg has issued a formal apology after a grade school Halloween parade float displayed a replica of the Auschwitz Concentration Camp gate, including the infamous phrase "Arbeit Macht Frei." Bishop Timothy Senior expressed shock and condemnation over the float, which was entered by St. Joseph Catholic School in Hanover, emphasizing that the original approved design did not include this offensive imagery. The phrase, historically used by Nazis to mock Jewish victims of forced labor, caused significant community outrage and calls for accountability. Bishop Senior apologized to the Jewish community and all offended, pledging to work with the Pennsylvania Jewish Coalition and the Anti-Defamation League to educate students about the Holocaust and to review approval processes to prevent future incidents. The incident sparked widespread concern and online backlash, highlighting the need for education and reflection on antisemitism and hatred. The Diocese aims to turn this incident into an educational opportunity and promote unity against prejudice.