UPDATE: A Catholic school in Hanover, Pennsylvania, is facing backlash after a Halloween float featured a replica of the infamous Auschwitz gate, sparking outrage and immediate apologies from church officials. The float, created by St. Joseph Catholic School, displayed the phrase “Arbeit Macht Frei,” which translates to “Work Makes You Free,” a notorious slogan used at concentration camps.
The float was showcased during a local Halloween parade on November 1, 2025, and videos of the display rapidly circulated on social media, triggering intense public condemnation. One local resident expressed disbelief, stating, “Why tf would there be a concentration camp entryway on a float?” The response highlighted the widespread shock and anger from the community.
By Saturday morning, Bishop Timothy C Senior of the Diocese of Harrisburg issued a formal apology, expressing his deep dismay. He stated, “The inclusion of this image—one that represents the horrific suffering and murder of millions of innocent people—is profoundly offensive and unacceptable.” He clarified that the approved design did not include the Auschwitz imagery and condemned the oversight.
In his statement, Bishop Senior extended apologies to the Jewish community and emphasized the Church’s commitment to combating antisemitism. “As Catholics, we stand firmly against all forms of hatred and prejudice, which are rampant in our society,” he said. The diocese plans to collaborate with the Pennsylvania Jewish Coalition and the Anti-Defamation League to enhance educational resources regarding the Holocaust.
The float’s designer, Galen S. Shelley, claimed he did not intend to offend and was unaware of the negative implications of the gate’s inclusion. He explained that the float was initially designed to represent a somber cemetery entrance, and the Auschwitz replica was added only after another piece failed to arrive on time. “I never intended anything to be like this. I couldn’t have anticipated it. I made a mistake and I ask everyone’s forgiveness,” Shelley stated.
The local company, Metcalf Clearing, which pulled the float, also issued an apology, noting they were unaware of the float’s messaging and significance. In a Facebook post, they acknowledged, “It should have been reviewed more carefully.”
This incident has raised critical discussions about cultural sensitivity and historical awareness within community events. The Diocese of Harrisburg is now reviewing its approval processes for future school activities to prevent similar occurrences.
As the community grapples with the ramifications of this incident, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of understanding and respecting historical contexts, especially concerning topics as sensitive as the Holocaust. More updates are anticipated as the diocese implements educational initiatives and engages with the local Jewish community in the coming days.
