PHILADELPHIA - The University of Pennsylvania's Class of 2024 graduation ceremony was held under heightened security measures last night as student protests continued to make headlines. The tension on campus has been high due to ongoing demonstrations related to the Israel-Hamas conflict and the situation in Gaza.
During the ceremony, some students wore keffiyehs, a traditional Middle Eastern headdress, unfurled banners, or waved flags supporting Palestine while crossing the stage. Despite the presence of protestors, the commencement went ahead as planned, with no significant disruptions reported.
The university had previously increased security measures in anticipation of potential disruptions. This included a "high level of security" at the 268th commencement, held at Franklin Field. The traditional processional of graduates from down Locust Walk to Franklin Field, which would have passed next to the protest site on College Green, was also impacted.
In a statement released before the ceremony, a university spokesperson said, "The safety and security of our community members is our top priority. We are committed to ensuring that all graduates and their families can celebrate this important milestone in a safe and secure environment."
The protests at the University of Pennsylvania are part of a more significant trend of student activism on college campuses nationwide. As the Israel-Hamas conflict continues, students are using their voices to express their views on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and to call for action from their universities.
