Following criticism for canceling a commencement speech by Muslim valedictorian Asna Tabassum over security concerns, the University of Southern California decided to have no outside speakers at the main stage commencement event. This move came after protests and backlash from various groups, including Muslim advocacy organizations and pro-Israel and Jewish groups, with conflicts arising over Tabassum's social media posts related to Palestine and Israel.
The University of Southern California cancelled a student's graduation speech amidst backlash over her Israel comments, citing security risks and facing accusations of antisemitism. Asna Tabassum, the 2024 valedictorian, had her speech axed due to social media activity critiquing Israel, leading to calls for her removal by pro-Israel groups. USC Provost justified the decision as necessary for safety, with tensions escalating due to ongoing Middle East conflict. The move sparked debate on free speech, with Tabassum expressing shock and disappointment at her university's actions.
The University of Southern California (USC) cancelled Asna Tabassum's valedictorian speech, citing security threats and complaints of anti-Semitism. Tabassum, a Muslim student, had posted content advocating for the abolishment of Israel. This decision sparked controversy over free speech and the Israel-Gaza conflict, with opposing student groups expressing their views. USC Provost Andrew Guzman denied the cancellation was related to past statements, but rather security concerns. Students supporting Tabassum planned a silent march, while pro-Israel groups objected to her selection. The incident reflects tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict on college campuses.
A dinner event for graduating law students at UC Berkeley hosted by law professor Catherine Fisk and her spouse, law school dean Erwin Chemerinsky, turned controversial when Palestinian student Malak Afaneh attempted to give an unsanctioned speech, leading to a confrontation over a microphone. Afaneh, leader of Berkeley Law Students for Justice in Palestine, accused Fisk of assault and discrimination. Chemerinsky condemned the disruption as divisive and expressed disappointment over the students' behavior. The incident has sparked debates on free speech, Islamophobia, and antisemitism on college campuses.
Rep. Ilhan Omar, a Democratic congresswoman from Minnesota, expressed pride in her daughter, Isra Hirsi, who was arrested during an anti-Israel protest in New York City. Isra Hirsi, a junior at Barnard College, was suspended for her involvement in the protest. Omar has a history of making statements against Israel and has called for a cease-fire of Israel's military operation in Gaza. Hirsi and over 100 protesters were arrested for trespassing during a demonstration at Columbia University. The protest aimed to stand in solidarity with Palestinians and demand divestment from companies complicit in genocide.
Pro-Palestinian activists blocked the Brooklyn Bridge, the Golden Gate, and roads to Chicago O'Hare Airport. They chanted slogans, banged drums, and ignited flares, leading to multiple arrests. The 'A15' protest called for solidarity with Palestine, an arms embargo, and an end to US taxpayer funding for Israel. Demonstrators on the Brooklyn Bridge shouted 'Palestine will be free' and flooded subways and streets in a statement against funding genocide.
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