Several major universities across the country are working to ensure that their commencement ceremonies proceed smoothly despite student protests over the Israel-Hamas war. Colleges are implementing additional security measures, screening attendees, and creating protest zones to prevent significant disruptions. At the University of Utah, a group of about 50 protesters disrupted the graduation ceremony, resulting in one arrest. University officials are trying to balance free speech rights with maintaining order.
At the University of Michigan, where over 8,000 graduates and 63,000 spectators are expected at the ceremony, security screenings will be in place to prevent disruptive protests. The university has a history of anti-Israel protests that have resulted in policy changes regarding expulsions and staff dismissals for disruptive behavior. Despite protesters demanding that ties with companies connected to Israel be cut, the encampment remains intact on campus. Students like Blake Richards, who is earning a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, are determined to celebrate their achievements despite any disruptions.
At Indiana University, protest zones have been designated outside the commencement venues to allow for peaceful demonstrations. Posts on social media have encouraged protesters to wear keffiyehs and walk out during the president’s remarks. Despite the tensions, students like Maya Wasserman, who is Jewish, expressed discomfort at the prospect of anti-Israel protests interfering with the ceremony. The encampment at Dunn Meadow, where dozens of protesters have been arrested, remains a focal point for campus activism.
Northeastern University is preparing for its commencement at Fenway Park, with security officials implementing strict measures to ensure safety. Signs, banners, balloons, and most bags are prohibited, and all attendees will pass through metal detectors. The university, which recently had nearly 100 protesters arrested, aims to keep the focus on celebrating the graduates’ achievements. The Boston area has seen several universities with anti-Israel encampments, but Northeastern’s camp was dismantled to prioritize the commencement.
As universities strive to balance free speech rights and maintaining order during commencement ceremonies, the tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict continue to impact campuses nationwide. While some students are determined to celebrate their achievements despite disruptions, others are concerned about the potential for anti-Israel protests to overshadow the joyous milestone. University officials are working diligently to ensure that the focus remains on the graduates and their remarkable achievements, while also respecting the principles of free expression. It remains to be seen how these universities will navigate the complex dynamics surrounding the Israel-Hamas war and student protests during their commencement ceremonies.
