University of Pennsylvania Law School Professor Amy Wax Faces Consequences for Racist Remarks: Is It Enough?

University of Pennsylvania law school professor Amy Wax is facing consequences for her disturbingly racist remarks, as reported by NBC News. After making statements that many have deemed white supremacist, Wax is being suspended for one year at half-pay, along with other sanctions and a public reprimand.

Wax’s history of discriminatory comments includes claiming she had never seen a Black student do well at her Ivy League law school, stating that “not all cultures are created equal,” and advocating for fewer nonwhites in America. She even invited white nationalist Jared Taylor to speak in her class, where he shared his beliefs on race differences and immigration.

This decision to suspend Wax comes after years of problematic behavior at Penn. Former dean Theodore W. Ruger revealed that Wax had been removed from teaching required courses in 2018 due to her offensive remarks, such as telling a Black student they only got into Ivy League schools because of affirmative action.

Wax has defended herself, claiming that the allegations against her are fabricated and that she is being penalized for her conservative beliefs. She argues that campuses like Penn are stifling free speech and creating a generation of students who cannot handle disagreement.

While Wax has not been fired or had her tenure revoked, her suspension is seen as a step towards accountability. However, many are questioning if this punishment is enough for someone who has promoted such harmful ideologies. Wax’s suspension is set to begin in the 2025-2026 academic year, leaving the university to grapple with the aftermath of her actions.