Professor Who Called Oct. 7 ‘Energizing’ Returns to Cornell After Voluntary Leave

Russell Rickford, an associate history professor at Cornell University, has returned to his teaching post after taking a voluntary leave following his inflammatory comments on the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attack. At an off-campus rally, Rickford referred to the attack, which claimed the lives of 1,200 civilians, as “exhilarating” and “energizing.”

Rickford’s return comes despite widespread backlash, including from university leadership. Cornell’s president at the time, Martha Pollack, along with board chair Kraig Kayser, denounced Rickford’s remarks, calling them “reprehensible” and a direct contradiction to the values upheld by the university. “This is a reprehensible comment that demonstrates no regard whatsoever for humanity,” their statement read.

Despite Rickford's apology, Cornell confirmed that it did not discipline the professor. His return to teaching courses on socialism and African-American visions of Africa has sparked renewed outrage from both lawmakers and the public. U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-Pa.) criticized Cornell’s decision, stating that Rickford’s comments represent “elite educational rot and antisemitism.” Similarly, Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.) expressed disgust, vowing to address the issue with Cornell’s leadership.

Rickford’s remarks, which celebrated the murder of civilians, including women, children, and Holocaust survivors, have not only raised concerns about antisemitism on campuses but also about the role of educators in shaping discourse on sensitive political conflicts. Tenney stressed that such views jeopardize the safety of Jewish students and tarnish Cornell’s reputation.

As campus debates over Israel and Palestine continue, Rickford’s case highlights the challenge universities face in balancing free speech with the responsibility to maintain an inclusive and safe environment for all students.

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