USC Cancels Main Commencement Ceremony Due to Safety Concerns

The University of Southern California (USC) has made the decision to cancel its main-stage graduation ceremony this year, citing new safety measures and increased processing times for guests. This announcement comes just one week after the controversial cancellation of the valedictorian speech by a Muslim student, Asna Tabassum, who claimed she was silenced by anti-Palestinian sentiments.

The Israel-Gaza conflict has sparked tensions on college campuses across the United States, leading to protests and arrests, including over 90 individuals at USC. The university has faced criticism for its handling of the situation, with rights groups expressing concerns about free speech issues.

USC Provost Andrew Guzman defended the decision to cancel Tabassum’s speech, stating it was done to protect campus security and not to suppress free speech. However, the decision has sparked further controversy, with groups like Trojans for Israel and We Are Tov calling for Tabassum’s removal, alleging she has expressed antisemitic views in the past.

Tabassum, a biomedical engineering major and self-described “first-generation South Asian-American Muslim,” has expressed frustration with USC officials for not sharing details of the security assessment that led to the cancellation of her speech.

The university’s decision to forgo the main commencement ceremony and release outside speakers and honorees from attending comes amid ongoing debate and scrutiny over the handling of the situation. USC continues to face backlash and calls for transparency in its decision-making process.