Los Angeles, California – The University of Southern California has sparked controversy by barring an undergraduate valedictorian from delivering a speech at its upcoming graduation ceremony due to security concerns. USC officials have cited threats against the student, who is facing backlash for her pro-Palestinian views, as the reason behind this unprecedented decision.
According to USC Provost Andrew T. Guzman, the valedictorian, identified as biomedical engineering major Asna Tabassum, will not be allowed to speak at the commencement ceremony. This move marks the first time in the university’s history that a valedictorian has been prevented from addressing the audience at the annual event, which typically attracts a large crowd to the Los Angeles campus.
The controversy surrounding Tabassum began when USC President Carol Folt announced her selection as valedictorian, prompting criticism from various groups on and off-campus. Tabassum’s vocal support for Palestinian rights and her social media activity, including liking posts from pro-Palestinian groups, have been scrutinized and labeled as antisemitic by some organizations.
In response to the decision, Tabassum expressed disappointment and accused USC of abandoning her in the face of racist attacks and hate speech. While the university emphasized the importance of prioritizing campus security, Tabassum condemned the move as a capitulation to efforts to silence her voice.
Despite calls from pro-Palestinian groups and supporters to reconsider the decision and allow Tabassum to speak, USC officials have stood by their choice, citing concerns over potential security risks and disruptions at the graduation ceremony. The university has offered support to the student but maintains that the decision to bar her from speaking was made in the interest of maintaining a safe environment for all attendees.
As the debate continues to unfold, with conflicting opinions from different groups on campus, the issue of free speech, security, and academic freedom remains at the forefront of the controversy. The decision to silence the valedictorian highlights the complex challenges universities face in balancing safety concerns with upholding students’ rights to express their views openly.