The University of Southern California is one of dozens of universities where protests have taken place on campus just weeks before admissions season. Police efforts to clear student encampments on school grounds have led to violence and arrests for some.
The cancellation of the main ceremony also comes after USC officials announced that valedictorian Asna Tabassum, who is Muslim and shares pro-Palestinian views, would not be allowed to speak at the graduation ceremony, citing vague concerns about security. This took place more than a week after the incident.
University officials said there had been an “alarming” reaction to the news that Mr. Tabassum had been selected as the commencement speaker, but they did not specify any threats. Amid backlash over the decision, the school also canceled its commencement keynote speech by fellow alumnus and film director Jon M. Chu.
The university announced Thursday that it will continue to hold dozens of other graduation events, including traditional ceremonies at individual schools.
“We understand that this is disappointing. However, we are adding many new activities and celebrations to make this graduation ceremony academically meaningful, memorable, and unique to USC. ” the university said in an update.
