Fatemeh Shams, an associate professor at the University of Pennsylvania, has been identified as a vocal participant in anti-American and antisemitic extremism. Her involvement in rallies and social media activity following the Hamas-led atrocities of October 7, 2023, have heavily pushed narratives that excuse or glorify terrorism and violence.
Fatemeh Shams’ Complete Disregard for Humanity
On October 16 and October 18, 2023, Shams spoke at public rallies in Philadelphia that coincided with widespread mourning for the victims of Hamas atrocities. At these events, Shams justified acts of violence and presented the situation in a way that minimized the suffering of civilians targeted in terrorist attacks. Her rhetoric included language that indirectly glorified acts of terror, aligning with narratives commonly used by extremist groups to promote “resistance.” Her statements amplified messages that contribute to division and extremism, while sidestepping meaningful discourse on peace or reconciliation.
Words of Extremism
Shams’s vocal support for controversial narratives has positioned her as a polarizing figure in both academic and public discourse. Notably, she shared a petition celebrating acts of “resistance” while accusing others of complicity in atrocities through silence or dissenting views.She has also been present at a number of protests and has called for Intifada to be globalize. Her participation in events and her promotion of divisive rhetoric continue to fuel debates over the role of educators in activism and the limits of free speech when it intersects with hate speech or violence.
