08/12/2026
Recently, a video of a religious procession by Erie’s Shia Muslim community was shared widely on social media, sparking disturbing and hateful comments, including threats towards those residents.
Let us be clear: There is no place for racism, Islamophobia, xenophobia, or hatred in the City of Erie. Erie is strongest when every person who calls our city home feels safe, valued, and welcome, regardless of their race, ethnicity, national origin, or faith. Hate has no place in our community.
Since becoming aware of these comments, the City has been working closely with community members to ensure their concerns are heard, incidents are properly documented, and appropriate steps are taken to protect those affected. In partnership with the Erie Police Department, we have:
• Worked with community members to ensure incidents and threats are reported for documentation and investigation.
• Increased police awareness and monitoring in areas of concern to help support community safety.
• Maintained regular communication through the City’s New American Affairs Coordinator, who has been meeting directly with community members to listen, provide support, and help connect residents with available resources.
In our work with the Shia Muslim community, we learned the procession, called “Arbaeen” or “forty” in Arabic, marks the end of the 40-day mourning period of Imam Hussein in the Battle of Karbala. It is a time of remembrance, reflection, unity, and standing against oppression, which are reminders of the importance of coming together as a community.
The safety and well-being of every Erie resident is our top priority, and we will continue to stand together against any and all forms of hate. Erie is a city built on community, respect, and caring for our neighbors, and every person who calls it home deserves to feel that sense of belonging.
Anyone who experiences or witnesses threatening or bias-motivated behavior is encouraged to report it to the Erie Police Department so that incidents can be documented and investigated appropriately.
Erie has long been strengthened by the many cultures, faiths, and traditions that make up our community. As a Certified Welcoming City, we invite the Erie community to learn more and celebrate the many cultures, faiths, traditions, and people who make meaningful contributions to the strength and vibrancy of our city during Welcoming Week, September 10–19, 2026. Stay tuned for events and ways to get involved.
