Amid ongoing campus unrest and safety concerns, the University of Southern California has announced the cancellation of its main stage graduation ceremony, traditionally attended by 65,000 people. The decision comes as pro-Palestinian protesters stormed and occupied the Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan, New York.
The occupation at the Fashion Institute of Technology saw hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters and other individuals rushing in and occupying the building in solidarity with counterparts at other colleges, particularly the Columbia University Liberated Zone. The protesters set up camp during a scheduled rally outside, marking a significant escalation in demonstrations.
US House Speaker Mike Johnson faced heckling during a visit to Columbia University amidst spreading protests against the Gaza war at US campuses. Criticizing Columbia officials, Johnson called for university president Nemat Shafik to resign during a tense news conference, highlighting concerns about rising antisemitism and safety on campuses.
Johnson rejected claims that the protests were legally protected free speech, expressing concern that Columbia failed to protect Jewish students and restore order. He further warned of the possibility of deploying the National Guard if the demonstrations were not swiftly contained, stressing the need to bring order to campuses.
Meanwhile, the White House affirmed President Joe Biden’s support for freedom of expression on American university campuses amid growing protests by students against Israel’s actions in Gaza. Biden had previously condemned blatant antisemitism on college campuses, emphasizing that it has no place within them.
The protests, sparked by solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, have led to clashes between law enforcement and students, with dozens arrested at Columbia University and 93 arrested at the University of Southern California’s Los Angeles campus for trespassing. The situation remains tense as campuses grapple with escalating tensions and calls for action.
