11 May 2024: In a poignant display of solidarity and support, the audience at USC’s Galen Center erupted into prolonged applause as Asna Tabassum, the Muslim valedictorian, crossed the stage to receive her diploma during the Viterbi School of Engineering graduation ceremony. This heartwarming moment came after Tabassum’s commencement speech was canceled by university leaders due to controversy surrounding her pro-Palestinian views.
Tabassum, adorned with her crimson graduation sash adorned with academic achievements, including a minor in resistance to genocide, and the phrase “praise be to God” written in Arabic, was met with a standing ovation from her entire biomedical engineering class and a few spectators as she returned to her seat.
The cancellation of Tabassum’s speech by USC President Carol Folt last month stirred a wave of disappointment and tension on campus, exacerbated by threats related to a pro-Palestinian link on her Instagram account. Despite protests and arrests, the university proceeded with individual school ceremonies, albeit without the main-stage commencement, which typically draws thousands of attendees.
Friday’s graduation ceremony, while celebratory, carried the weight of recent tumultuous events on campus. However, the outpouring of support for Tabassum served as a beacon of hope and resilience amidst challenging circumstances.
In a statement to the crowd, Yannis C. Yortsos, dean of the USC Viterbi School of Engineering, commended the graduates for demonstrating dignity, moral compass, and true grace amid global turmoil. He emphasized the importance of their trustworthiness and social-centric focus in addressing future challenges.
Tabassum’s presence at the ceremony symbolized resilience and defiance in the face of adversity. Her silenced commencement speech, released in a partially redacted form, underscored the complexities of free speech and safety concerns on college campuses.
As USC navigates the aftermath of disrupted graduation plans and ongoing campus unrest, the overwhelming support for Tabassum highlights the power of unity and solidarity in fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Despite the challenges and uncertainties that linger, Friday’s graduation ceremony at USC was a testament to the resilience and spirit of its students, faculty, and staff. As the university charts its path forward, the unwavering support for Tabassum serves as a reminder of the values of inclusivity, diversity, and free expression that define the Trojan community.
