University students miss out on an important life milestone – their graduation ceremony. The main reason? Protests are happening on campus over the conflict between Israel and Palestine.
Here are the key points this article will cover:
- Protests at universities like USC have forced some schools to cancel graduation events
- Many students feel upset to miss this particular ceremony after also missing high school graduations due to COVID-19
- Some protesters are being arrested, with possible ties to groups funded by George Soros
- Debate over whether universities should crack down harder on disruptive protests
Do these protests need to ruin such an important day for students? Let’s examine this question more closely.
Graduations Canceled Amid Safety Fears
The University of Southern California (USC) recently announced cancelling its big graduation ceremony. Why? Around 100 pro-Palestinian protesters were arrested on campus. University officials said they could not ensure safety with the protests happening.
This is a massive disappointment for students who have worked hard for years to earn their degrees. One USC student expressed frustration, saying, “It’s awful. It’s not fair.” Another noted this was the second major graduation they’d miss after COVID cancelled their high school ceremony.
Who Is Behind the Protests?
A recent report claims some protest organizers are connected to groups funded by George Soros, a wealthy businessman. Soros has supported many political causes through his donations.
The protestors have set up camps on campus with new tents, signs, and catered food. This has led some critics to argue that the protests seem more organized and well-funded than spontaneous student demonstrations.
However, other experts say focusing only on the financial backing misses the point. They argue that students have a right to free speech and peaceful protest, regardless of funding sources.
Debate Over University Response
How should universities respond to these disruptive protests while protecting free speech rights? Some say schools must crack down harder to ensure regular operations and student safety.
Others argue institutions should allow peaceful protests as part of the exchange of ideas. Determining when protests cross a line into unacceptable or unlawful behaviour is complex.
The White House has stated that deploying National Guard troops are up to state governors, not the president. However, past presidents have sent the National Guard to university campuses during unrest.
Prioritizing Student Interests
No matter one’s stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict itself, many agree universities should prioritize letting students celebrate their hard-earned graduations. After years of studies disrupted by COVID-19, students deserve the chance to mark this significant academic milestone.
One possible solution is to have separate protest areas on campus while securing the graduation venue so ceremonies can proceed safely and on schedule.
Ultimately, finding a way to uphold free speech rights while still ensuring once-in-a-lifetime events like college graduations can take place may require compromise from all sides. Students’ joyful culmination of years of hard work should not become another victim amid these clashes.
How would you feel if your graduation ceremony was cancelled due to on-campus protests? Let’s discuss ways to prevent that disappointment in future classes.