BOROUGH OF HANOVER RELEASES STATEMENT REGARDING JAYCEES HALLOWEEN PARADE

HANOVER, PA — Hanover Borough has received a multitude of correspondence regarding the Hanover Jaycees Halloween parade.  We thank those who reached out to share their deeply felt concerns.  In addition, we want to assure you that your message has been heard and that Hanover Borough elected officials and staff share your sentiments regarding the imagery associated with Nazi Germany which was depicted on the St. Joseph’s School float.

The portrayal of such a hateful symbol is not reflective of Hanover Borough or of our community values and does not align with our commitment to fostering an environment of safety, respect, and inclusivity for all. We recognize the pain and distress that such imagery can cause and stand firmly against hatred in any form.

We met with Fr. Michael Rothan, the Pastor of St. Joseph’s Church, who likewise condemned this symbol on the float and conveyed his remorse for the process failures which unfortunately led to its inclusion.  He also expressed his deepest apologies to all those who were justifiably horrified by it. 

As a Borough, we will also look to the future and continue to build a community defined by understanding, compassion, unity and forgiveness, in which we all stand together in rejecting hatred, antisemitism and bigotry in every form. 

Thank you once again for your advocacy and commitment to the well-being of our community. We continue to strive to ensure that Hanover remains a place where all residents can feel safe and respected.

We envision a thriving, welcoming community appealing to individuals, families and businesses where best-practices shape delivery of exceptional municipal services and citizen engagement. By providing efficient, high-quality services, we support a clean and safe environment, inclusive recreation, and a vibrant, drug-free downtown for all.

About the Borough of Hanover

The Borough of Hanover, York County, Pennsylvania, was incorporated in 1815. The Borough serves the public through stewardship, government, development and improvements of public assets including water/sewer/stormwater & refuse utilities, parks & recreation facilities, the Hanover Market House, the Guthrie Memorial Library, as well as Code Enforcement, Police & Fire Departments. It is governed by the Borough Council, overseen by the Borough Manager, and staffed by administrative, public service, public works, sewer, water, refuse and engineering professionals. Known as the Snack Food Capital of the World, Hanover is home, not only to numerous food industries, but also to manufacturing, technology, commercial sales, and services. Hanover Borough offices, located at 33 Frederick Street, can be reached at 717-637-3877 or by email at Info@HanoverBoroughPA.gov. More information is available at www.HanoverBoroughPA.gov.