The American Association of University Professors (AAUP) is opposing the University of Pennsylvania’s current efforts to address antisemitism, raising concerns that the school’s investigative procedures may infringe on academic freedom and faculty rights. The dispute centers on Penn’s Office of Religious and Ethnic Integrity (OREI), which oversees complaints of ethnic and religious discrimination under federal Title VI rules.
AAUP claims the university’s approach to handling antisemitism complaints may violate principles of free expression. In an October 20 letter, the AAUP criticized the OREI’s broad interpretation of antisemitism and alleged that Penn has pressured faculty to alter teaching and research in response to unsubstantiated complaints. According to the AAUP, these investigations often originate from external pressure campaigns or vague accusations based on classroom statements or social media posts.
Faculty affiliated with Arab, Muslim, or Palestinian causes appear to be disproportionately targeted, according to the AAUP’s statement. The letter warns that such investigations can have a chilling effect on faculty speech, especially when they involve politically charged topics like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The organization also called for greater transparency from Penn, demanding data on the number and origin of OREI investigations, including how many complaints were filed by individuals outside the university.
Meanwhile, Jewish student groups and pro-Israel organizations argue that Penn’s response to antisemitism has been insufficient. Past incidents have included vandalism of Jewish centers, antisemitic language at campus events, and harassment tied to protests. These groups insist that the university’s Title VI investigations play a necessary role in protecting Jewish students from hostility.
Penn officials have defended the role of OREI, stating that it exists to mediate and investigate religious or ethnic harassment complaints in line with federal law. The university maintains that the process does not infringe on academic freedom and is consistent with commitments to both diversity and free inquiry.
The dispute reflects broader tensions in American higher education. Universities are under pressure to protect students from identity-based harassment while also preserving the constitutional rights of faculty.
