1. Pro-Palestinian demonstrations decrease on college campuses as graduation ceremonies witness acts of defiance
2. Decline in activism for Palestinian cause at universities while graduation events showcase acts of resistance.
Accident – Death – Obituary News : A small group of Duke University graduates staged a protest during their commencement ceremony in North Carolina, expressing their opposition to pro-Israel comedian Jerry Seinfeld receiving an honorary doctorate from the university. Approximately 30 out of the 7,000 students in attendance stood up, chanted “free Palestine,” and waved the Palestinian flag, causing a mix of boos and cheers from the audience.
Seinfeld, known for his iconic sitcom and latest Netflix movie “Unfrosted,” has been a vocal supporter of Israel, especially during the recent conflict with Hamas in Gaza. The ongoing war has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with thousands losing their lives, including many civilians.
The demonstration at Duke’s graduation is part of a larger trend of student protests across the United States, with nearly 2,900 arrests reported at 57 colleges and universities in recent weeks. Students have been calling for divestment from Israel and businesses supporting the country, leading to encampments and disruptions at various campuses.
At Southern California’s Pomona College, pro-Palestinian protesters attempted to block access to the commencement ceremony, prompting the school to relocate the event to a different venue in downtown Los Angeles. The protesters, who had occupied the college president’s office earlier, demanded divestment from corporations with ties to Israel.
Similar protests took place at the University of California, Berkeley, where a small group of demonstrators disrupted the commencement ceremony with chants and flags. While some attendees expressed frustration at the disruption, others showed solidarity with the Palestinian cause by incorporating messages on their graduation attire.
The wave of protests has also affected other universities, such as Columbia University and the University of Southern California, where events were altered or canceled due to security concerns. At DePaul University in Chicago, students continue to advocate for divestment from Israeli interests, setting up an encampment on campus.
As graduation season unfolds, tensions between pro-Palestinian activists and university administrations remain high, reflecting the broader debate on campus about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The demonstrations highlight the diverse perspectives and voices within the student community, as well as the challenges of addressing complex geopolitical issues in an academic setting.
In conclusion, the protests at Duke University and other institutions underscore the importance of dialogue and engagement on contentious topics like the Israel-Gaza conflict. While disagreements may arise, the opportunity for civil discourse and mutual understanding is essential for fostering a respectful and inclusive academic environment..
1. Pro-Palestinian protests on campuses
2. US college graduations marked by defiant acts.
