As universities across the United States grapple with protests and security concerns, many students are worried about the impact on their commencement ceremonies. USC in Los Angeles canceled its main graduation event due to safety concerns following student protests, leading to fears among students at Columbia University in New York that their ceremony could be disrupted as well. The trend of protests spreading from one campus to another, much like what occurred at Columbia, is causing uncertainty and apprehension among graduating students nationwide.
For many graduating seniors, the cancellation or delay of high school commencement ceremonies due to the coronavirus pandemic has already been a significant disappointment. Students like Henry Sears at Columbia University, whose first year of college was online, are particularly concerned about the potential disruption of their college graduation events. Jacob Schmeltz, another senior at Columbia, reflects on his disrupted high school experience and anticipates further challenges as graduation approaches amid heightened tensions and protests on campus.
The decision to cancel USC’s main commencement ceremony came after protests erupted following the cancellation of a Muslim student’s valedictorian speech due to security threats. The school opted to forgo the keynote address by alumnus Jon M. Chu and the presentation of honorary degrees in light of the escalating protests and potential disruptions. Despite the cancellation of the main event, USC officials have assured students that alternative celebrations will be organized to ensure a meaningful and memorable conclusion to their academic journey.
At Columbia University, where protests have also intensified in recent days, students like Sears express concerns about potential disruptions to their graduation ceremony. The university has stated its focus on ensuring the safety and security of the campus community while planning and organizing commencement activities. Similarly, the University of Michigan has indicated that peaceful protests can coexist with graduation ceremonies but emphasized the need to maintain a safe and secure environment for all participants.
Amidst the political tensions and protests on campus, Jewish students like Sears and Schmeltz at Columbia University have reported feeling unsafe and marginalized. Sears describes instances of hostility and dehumanization towards both Jewish and pro-Palestinian students, highlighting the challenging and divisive atmosphere on campus. Schmeltz expresses reluctance to celebrate with peers who have been hostile towards Jewish students, reflecting a broader sense of conflict and animosity among student groups on campus.
As universities and students navigate the complex dynamics of protests, security concerns, and commencement planning, the impact on graduation ceremonies remains uncertain. Institutions like Yale University have emphasized the importance of providing a safe and enjoyable experience for graduates, families, and faculty while working with security teams to address potential disruptions. Amidst heightened tensions and growing animosity among student groups, the focus remains on ensuring a peaceful and meaningful conclusion to the academic year for all graduating students, regardless of the challenges and uncertainties they may face.
