University of Chicago professor Eman Abdelhadi openly condemned her employer as “evil” and a “colonial landlord” during the Socialism 2025 conference. The university has since launched an investigation into her remarks, citing academic expectations and standards.
Eman Abdelhadi, an assistant professor and graduate program director in the Department of Comparative Human Development, drew headlines when she stated, “F‑‑‑ the University of Chicago. It’s evil” and labeled the institution a “colonial landlord” and “a police force.” She said she remained at the university to gain access to “structural leverage” and organize politically from within.
University officials confirmed the investigation. The administration reaffirmed its commitment to free expression and academic freedom but emphasized faculty duty to uphold scholarship and teaching to professional standards. The school is evaluating whether Abdelhadi’s remarks fall outside those responsibilities.
Abdelhadi issued a response, claiming conservative outlets misinterpreted her comments. She clarified that she did not remain solely to wield political power, but gradually saw a role in influencing university policy through legitimate governance bodies like the AAUP and faculty senate. She described herself as actively engaged in the campus community and expressed affection for her students and colleagues.
Following the widespread coverage by Fox News and conservative media, Abdelhadi reported receiving “a barrage of hate” and fearing for her safety. She reaffirmed confidence in UChicago’s ability to manage internal criticism and uphold freedom of speech principles.
Abdelhadi was not alone in using the platform of Socialism 2025 to challenge higher education institutions. Other speakers proposed radical transformations of universities, including sanctuary campuses, abolition of grades, renaming institutions, and dismantling campus policing—framing higher education as sites for revolutionary organizing.
This incident underscores tension between radical critique and institutional affiliation. Abdelhadi’s remarks raise serious questions about faculty conduct and the boundaries of permissible political speech within academia. While UChicago upholds robust free speech principles, it also declares faculty must maintain professional standards in teaching and scholarship.
