Philadelphia teacher admits to falsifying Black and Palestinian identity

Hannah Gann, a teacher at Philadelphia’s Workshop School and a local activist, has admitted to falsely presenting herself as Black and Palestinian for several years. Gann used this identity to become deeply involved in racial justice and pro-Palestinian advocacy.

The admission followed confrontations by members of Philly Educators for Palestine and the Racial Justice Organizing Committee. After being questioned for over an hour regarding her background, Gann confessed to the deception. Both organizations have since announced they are cutting ties with her and will no longer welcome her in their organizing spaces.

Another Philadelphia teacher, Keziah Ridgeway, also confronted Gann after noticing inconsistencies in her claims regarding her heritage. Ridgeway, who had previously faced disciplinary action over pro-Palestinian social media posts, reportedly challenged Gann to verify her family history directly.