University of Pennsylvania law professor Amy Wax has been suspended from teaching for one year following a ruling by the faculty committee that reviewed her record of “flagrantly unprofessional conduct,” university officials announced on Monday.
Wax, a tenured professor at Penn’s Carey Law School, has a history of making controversial statements questioning the capabilities of Black students and suggesting the country would benefit from fewer Democrat-leaning Asian immigrants. These remarks have sparked outrage and led to disciplinary action against her.
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Wax has also faced criticism for inviting Jared Taylor, editor of the white supremacist American Renaissance publication, to speak in her classroom. This decision, along with her other inflammatory comments, led to the faculty committee’s decision to suspend her for one year.
Following a thorough review, the Faculty Senate Committee on Academic Freedom concluded that Wax had violated Penn’s behavioral standards and breached her responsibilities as a teacher. As a result, she will face a one-year suspension with pay starting in the 2025-2026 academic year.
In addition to her suspension, Wax will lose her summer pay, her named chair at Penn, and will be required to include a disclaimer in all public appearances stating that she does not represent the university or the Carey Law School. However, she will retain her tenure at Penn and will be allowed to finish the current academic year.
The committee’s decision also stipulates that a public reprimand of Wax will be published in the Penn Almanac, the university’s weekly publication.
Wax’s controversial remarks and conduct have led to a significant decline in enrollment in her courses in recent years. Despite her prestigious background in law and academia, her divisive statements have caused rifts within the Penn community.
Discussion of Free Speech and Academic Freedom
Wax’s case highlights ongoing debates about free speech and academic freedom on college campuses. The decision to sanction her comes at a time when universities are facing scrutiny over how they handle contentious issues, such as the conflict in Gaza.
The university’s handling of the Palestine Writes Literature Festival and its response to student protests have also come under fire, with critics questioning the institution’s commitment to free expression.
While academic freedom is vital, it must be balanced with the responsibility to create a fair and respectful learning environment for all students. By holding Wax accountable for her conduct, Penn is sending a clear message about the importance of professional behavior in academia.
As the university moves forward with its decision, it remains to be seen how this case will impact discussions surrounding free speech and academic freedom in higher education.