South Central PA News

Two days after the first anniversary of the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel, a bill requiring Holocaust education in Pennsylvania schools has advanced. Introduced by Senator Doug Mastriano (R-33), the legislation received approval from the state Senate Education Committee.

Senator Mastriano emphasized the importance of this educational initiative in light of recent events. "The importance of this bill became apparent as we saw the overt demonstrations on college campuses across Pennsylvania after the horrific and cowardly attacks that occurred against the peaceful citizens of Israel last October," he stated.

He further highlighted concerns about fading memories and ignorance among students regarding historical atrocities. Quoting a well-known saying, he remarked, “Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” He attributed some student reactions to a lack of education: "Through what I can only attribute to ignorance brought on by a lack of education, students were swayed to fall for the 'from the river to the sea' cry, not fully understanding the atrocities the Jewish people have suffered."

Senator Mastriano noted an increase in antisemitic acts and described how Jewish students felt unsafe at their own colleges. He stressed that it is crucial for children to learn about past horrors so they can recognize them today. "Ignorance is the fertilizer of fear and hate!" he asserted, adding that knowledge counters ignorance effectively.

With this bill, Senator Mastriano aims to ensure students understand that more than six million Jews were killed during the Holocaust because of their faith. He hopes future generations will remember these events and prevent history from repeating itself.

Senator Doug Mastriano represents Pennsylvania's 33rd Senatorial District covering Adams and Franklin counties. He chairs the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee and is a combat veteran with service in Iraq during Operation Desert Storm and three deployments to Afghanistan.

For media inquiries, contact Don Beishl at 717-787-6701.