New York, NY, September 11, 2015 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today expressed shock at a photo posted online showing the captain of the Pace University football team draped in a Confederate flag while making a Nazi salute. The photo of the student, Tyler Owens, appeared on the photo sharing app Snapchat and was captioned “The grand wizard.”

Pace University yesterday removed Owens as team captain and suspended him pending an investigation.

“We are shocked that a student in an athletic leadership role would pose for a photo wrapped in a Confederate flag making a Nazi salute,” said Evan R. Bernstein, ADL New York Regional Director. “His behavior highlights the need for ongoing education to ensure that university students fully understand the roots of racism, anti-Semitism, and the consequences of unchecked bigotry and hate.”

Mr. Bernstein added, “We applaud the quick action by Pace University President Steven J. Friedman, and recognize that the incident does not represent the attitudes held by most students on the Pace campus.”

ADL offers anti-bias training programs and resources for college and university campuses throughout the United States and has reached out to campus administrators and Hillel to offer resources and guidance.

The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world’s leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.  Follow us on Twitter: @ADL_NY