Recent weeks have seen protests over the Israel-Hamas conflict spreading to university and college campuses across the United States, resulting in disruptions and arrests. While most commencement exercises proceeded as scheduled and remained peaceful, some ceremonies were marked by demonstrations related to the ongoing conflict.
Duke University
At Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, dozens of graduates protested against pro-Israel speaker and comedian Jerry Seinfeld during the commencement ceremony. Some students waved Palestinian flags and chanted “Free Palestine” in response to Seinfeld receiving an honorary doctorate from the university.
Pomona College
Pomona College in Southern California relocated its commencement ceremony to the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles after pro-Palestinian protesters staged an encampment on the campus stage. Demonstrators attempted to block access to the graduation event, citing the college's alleged inaction regarding divesting from corporations linked to the Gaza conflict.
Emerson College
Student protesters at Emerson College in Boston disrupted the commencement ceremony with occasional chants, some wearing Palestinian scarves and others discarding their graduation gowns on stage after receiving their diplomas.
Virginia Commonwealth University
At Virginia Commonwealth University, graduating students walked out during a speech by Governor Glenn Youngkin, with some expressing support for Palestinians and others protesting the governor's education policies.
University of California, Berkeley
A small group of pro-Palestinian demonstrators at the University of California, Berkeley, waved flags and chanted during the commencement, leading to their relocation to the back of the stadium.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Pro-Palestinian demonstrators at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill splattered red paint on building steps and chanted on campus ahead of the commencement ceremony.
University of Wisconsin-Madison
A silent protest by a small group at the University of Wisconsin-Madison commencement featured individuals carrying a Palestinian flag, with no arrests made as they voluntarily left the stadium.
University of Texas at Austin
During the University of Texas at Austin commencement, a student briefly held up a Palestinian flag on stage before being escorted away by security.
Northeastern University
Commencement ceremonies at Northeastern University in Boston proceeded peacefully, with some students displaying Palestinian and Israeli flags among others, and a call for peace in Gaza by an undergraduate speaker.
Ohio State University
Tragically, a woman fell to her death during the Ohio State University graduation ceremony, with reports indicating a possible suicide. The incident occurred near the end of the event.
University of Michigan
At the University of Michigan commencement, graduates protested with Palestinian flags and banners, demanding the university sever financial ties with companies associated with Israel. The protests did not disrupt the ceremony.
