Robert Vitalis, a political science professor at the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn), has been at the center of controversy for his outspoken support of extremist rhetoric and actions. His public endorsement of Hamas’s military wing and participation in a pro-Hamas protest have raised significant concerns about his influence on campus activism. As of October 2023, Vitalis continued to serve in his academic role, leveraging his platform to shape narratives around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Promoting Extremist Symbols and Rhetoric

Vitalis drew criticism in October 2023 when he posted the logo of Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, on his Facebook page. The post, captioned “a fast way to reduce my friend list,” came shortly after Hamas committed a series of terror attacks and war crimes against Israeli civilians, leaving over 1,400 dead, hundreds kidnapped, and thousands injured. The post was widely viewed as an endorsement of Hamas’s violent actions and further exacerbated tensions on campus.

Participation in Pro-Hamas Protests

On October 16, 2023, Vitalis spoke at a pro-Hamas protest organized by Penn Against the Occupation (PAO) on the UPenn campus. The rally followed Hamas’s attacks on Israeli civilians, which had sparked global condemnation. Vitalis’s involvement in the protest, alongside his prior social media activity, positioned him as a vocal supporter of Hamas’s narrative, raising concerns among students, faculty, and the broader community about his role in fostering extremist sentiments on campus.

Defending Controversial Conferences

Vitalis has also been a staunch defender of the Palestine Writes conference, which has been criticized as antisemitic. While advocating for the conference, he simultaneously called on his peers on the political left to confront the crimes committed by Hamas. This paradoxical stance has drawn both criticism and confusion, as it highlights his willingness to justify platforms accused of promoting hate while acknowledging the need for accountability.

Highlighting His Activity:

• Promotion of Extremist Symbols: Publicly displayed the Al-Qassam logo, the military wing of Hamas, on Facebook shortly after Hamas’s terror attacks in October 2023, signaling support for the group.
• Participation in Pro-Hamas Protests: Spoke at a pro-Hamas rally organized by Penn Against the Occupation (PAO) on October 16, 2023, following violent attacks that resulted in significant casualties.
• Defense of Controversial Conferences: Advocated for the Palestine Writes conference, widely criticized for its antisemitic content, while urging peers to address Hamas’s crimes.
• Amplification of Extremist Narratives: Leveraged his academic position to promote controversial rhetoric around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, contributing to an atmosphere of polarization and tension on campus.