Xavier University withdraws invitation for UN ambassador to deliver commencement speech following student protest | Lifestyle

Xavier University of Louisiana Cancels U.S. Ambassador’s Commencement Address Amid Student Outrage

In a surprising turn of events, Xavier University of Louisiana has decided to cancel U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield’s planned commencement address after facing backlash from students. The decision was announced by University President Reynold Verret in an email to faculty, staff, and students on Wednesday.

The controversy stemmed from students’ opposition to the U.S.’s past positions on the war in Gaza, particularly the vetoing of three cease-fire resolutions before presenting a resolution for an “immediate and sustained ceasefire in Gaza” in March. Thomas-Greenfield’s explanations for the vetoes, including the need for resolutions to mention Israel’s right to self-defense and the release of hostages taken by Hamas, further fueled the outrage among students.

Verret emphasized the importance of ensuring a commencement ceremony that honors the graduates and their achievements without disruptions. He stated, “The vast majority of students want to be able to enjoy a commencement ceremony free of disruptions. Therefore, we will not be moving forward with the commencement speaker as originally planned.”

The cancellation was described as a “regrettable conclusion” by Verret, who noted that the decision was made in partnership with the ambassador. Thomas-Greenfield did not provide a comment on the situation. This is not the first time the ambassador has faced backlash for her planned commencement address, as a similar situation occurred at the University of Vermont where her speech was also canceled.

Xavier Student Government Association President Chase Patterson, who had advocated for reconsidering the commencement speaker choice, expressed gratitude for Verret’s decision to listen to their concerns. Patterson stated, “We are grateful that President Verret actually listened to our call. This does make me optimistic that students will continue to support us and we will continue to support them and that the administration will continue to listen to us.”

Despite the opposition to Thomas-Greenfield’s invitation, Verret acknowledged that many still believed her contribution to the ceremony would have been meaningful. He mentioned the possibility of welcoming the ambassador to campus in the future for substantive conversations with students and faculty.

The graduation ceremony is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Saturday at the university’s Convocation Center. Verret did not indicate whether a new speaker would be arranged to fill Thomas-Greenfield’s spot.

The decision to cancel the commencement address has sparked discussions about free speech, political views, and the role of speakers at university events. It remains to be seen how the university community will respond to this development and whether there will be further repercussions in the future.