University of Toronto dentistry dean resigns after antisemitic slides used in lecture

The dean of the University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry has resigned after a university investigation found antisemitic imagery in lecture slides he used, JNS reported Friday.

Dr. Anil Kishen used cartoons that included a figure with an exaggerated beak-like nose bathing in money and another showing a figure wrapped in an Israeli flag being strangled — presented as analogies for medical concepts. Provost Trevor Young wrote that the slides contained antisemitic imagery even though Kishen said he did not intend to promote antisemitism and claimed "limited knowledge" of antisemitic tropes.

Kishen had been on administrative leave since February and will keep his tenured faculty post; he is expected to return to full duties in the 2027-28 academic year. Acting Dean Laura Tam remains in place while the university searches for a successor. HonestReporting Canada shared the provost's letter to the faculty community.