USC Cancels Main Commencement Ceremony Due to Safety Concerns amid Anti-Israel Protests; Critics Accuse University of Yielding to “Campus Terrorists”

The University of Southern California (USC) has cancelled its main commencement ceremony for graduating students in 2024 due to increased safety measures, following disruptions caused by anti-Israel protests on campus. Critics have criticised the decision as “brutal” and a result of caving into “campus terrorists”. USC had earlier faced backlash when it prevented valedictorian Asna Tabassum from speaking at commencement over safety concerns due to her social media activity, which critics accused of promoting anti-Israel rhetoric. The decision follows protests on college campuses nationwide as anti-Israel groups set up encampments leading to tensions with authorities and the closure of Columbia University’s campus for the rest of the semester. USC has warned students that individual school commencement ceremonies, doctoral hooding ceremonies and other celebrations will still be held but advised attendees and their bags may be screened, following new safety measures including showing tickets to access the university premises.