Statement from Steven J. Fluharty, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania
Updated January 25, 2021
It was with great outrage and dismay that I learned of the use of a Nazi salute and expression by Robert Schuyler, a University of Pennsylvania anthropology professor and Penn Museum curator, in addressing a graduate student during a virtual conference last week of the Society for Historical Archaeology.
On behalf of Penn’s School of Arts and Sciences, I strongly condemn this abhorrent conduct. Such behavior has no place in our academic discourse, which aims to celebrate the open exchange of ideas in an environment that promotes civility, respect, and inclusion. Nazi symbols are antithetical to our values as an institution. The fact that this behavior comes during a period of deep social division in our nation, when too many others are invoking such symbols in their expressions of hate, makes this incident even more painful for our community.
I reaffirm the School’s commitment to being a welcoming home for all.
As has been reported, the School has canceled the professor’s scheduled courses for the spring semester. As of January 25, 2021, Professor Schuyler has retired from our faculty.
