URGENT UPDATE: A Catholic school’s Halloween float has sparked outrage after featuring a replica of the Auschwitz gate, prompting immediate apologies from local authorities. The disturbing display, created by St. Joseph Catholic School in Hanover, Pennsylvania, included the infamous phrase “Arbeit Macht Frei,” translating to “Work Makes You Free,” a term historically associated with the Holocaust.
The float drew significant backlash on social media after the Halloween parade on November 1, 2025. Local residents expressed their disgust, with one commenter stating, “Why tf would there be a concentration camp entryway on a float?” Another added, “This is very disturbing.”
By Saturday morning, the Diocese of Harrisburg and the local company responsible for pulling the float were compelled to issue apologies. In a statement, Bishop Timothy C. Senior expressed his shock and dismay, stating, “The inclusion of this image—one that represents the horrific suffering and murder of millions of innocent people—is profoundly offensive and unacceptable.”
Bishop Senior clarified that the original float design did not feature the Auschwitz gate. He stated, “I strongly condemn the inclusion of this symbol on the float,” emphasizing the Church’s commitment to combating antisemitism and fostering respect for the Jewish community.
The diocese plans to collaborate closely with the Pennsylvania Jewish Coalition and the Anti-Defamation League to provide educational resources about the Holocaust and review the float approval process moving forward.
The float’s designer, Galen S. Shelley, claimed he did not intend any harm and was unaware of the significant implications of using the phrase. He explained that the gate was included after a different decoration did not arrive in time. “I wanted to illustrate the idea none of us get out of this life alive,” he stated, acknowledging the mistake and asking for forgiveness.
The local clearing company, Metcalf Clearing, also issued an apology, stating, “We were unaware of its meaning and significance.” They acknowledged the oversight and the need for more thorough reviews in the future.
The incident has ignited a broader conversation about sensitivity and awareness regarding historical symbols, particularly those related to the Holocaust. As the community grapples with the fallout, many are calling for greater education and understanding to prevent similar occurrences.
As the situation develops, the diocese’s actions and community responses will be closely monitored. Immediate steps are being taken to ensure that educational resources and discussions about the Holocaust are prioritized within the school community.
Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving story.
