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USC Cancels Valedictorian Speech Over Safety Concerns
Asna Tabassum's Speech Rescinded Amid Backlash
Los Angeles, Calif. —
The University of Southern California (USC) has canceled the valedictorian speech of graduating senior Asna Tabassum over safety concerns.
Tabassum was originally scheduled to speak at the university's commencement ceremony on May 14, 2024. However, the university announced on Friday that her speech had been rescinded.
"We have made this difficult decision after careful consideration of the safety of our campus community," USC said in a statement. "We understand that this is a disappointing decision for Ms. Tabassum, and we regret any inconvenience it may cause."
The university did not provide any specific details about the safety concerns that led to the cancellation of Tabassum's speech. However, some students have criticized her social media activity, which includes posts that are critical of Israel.
Tabassum has said that she is a "proud Palestinian" and that she supports the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, which seeks to pressure Israel to end its occupation of the Palestinian territories.
The decision to cancel Tabassum's speech has drawn mixed reactions from the USC community. Some students have expressed support for the university's decision, while others have condemned it as an attack on free speech.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Southern California has also criticized the university's decision, saying that it "sends a chilling message to students about the limits of free speech on campus."
The university has said that it is committed to protecting the free speech rights of its students. However, it also said that it has a responsibility to ensure the safety of its campus community.
"We believe that this decision is in the best interests of our students and our community," the university said.
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