The Committee expresses concern over Union College’s possible termination of Professor Leila Khatami, reportedly based on her family background rather than her professional conduct. Such an action would contradict American values and academic freedom, as the United States does not punish individuals for the actions or identities of their parents.
February 5, 2026
Dr. Elizabeth Kiss, President
Feigenbaum Hall
Union College
807 Union Street
Schenectady, NY 12308
Dear President Kiss:
The Committee of Concerned Scientists (CCS) is an independent human rights organization of scientists, physicians, engineers, and scholars. For over 50 years, it has been protecting and advancing the rights and scientific freedom of colleagues worldwide.
Today, we write to express our concern about possible termination by Union College of Professor Leila Khatami, a mathematician, reportedly caused by her being a daughter of prominent Iranian politician.
In the opinion of this Committee, such action of Union College would be inconsistent with American culture and tradition. It would resemble the campaign against “Children of Enemies of the People” conducted by the Soviet Union in the 1920s – 1950s, when prominent scholars were denied research positions and expelled from academic jobs based on their ancestry.
While we share the hard feelings towards the Iranian regime of the members of the Iranian American community, we believe that calling for dismissal of Prof. Khatami goes against the American tradition. It should not be answered by your administration. Unlike Iran and other totalitarian countries, the United States doesn’t punish people for the sins of their parents.
We hope that Union College will stand by its principles of justice and humanity. Accordingly, we respectfully urge that the Union College refrain from removing Prof. Khatami from her position.
Sincerely,
Joel L. Lebowitz, Walter Reich, Eugene M. Chudnovsky, Alexander Greer
Co-Chairs, Committee of Concerned Scientists