USC Cancels Graduation Speech by Muslim Valedictorian Amid Safety Concerns and Controversy over Pro-Israel Criticism
The University of Southern California (USC) has canceled the graduation speech by Muslim student Asna Tabassum due to safety concerns following criticism from pro-Israel groups.
Tabassum, who was selected as class valedictorian, has faced online attacks for her perceived "antisemitic and anti-Zionist rhetoric." The university's provost, Andrew Guzman, announced the May 10 ceremony would proceed without her speech, citing the escalating discussion as having an "alarming tenor." This is the latest controversy in American higher education amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
A USC student, Guzman, expressed concern about escalating tensions and threats towards the university due to social media and the Middle East conflict.
The Los Angeles Times reported that USC had received threats via email, phone, and letter.
Erroll Southers, the university's associate senior vice president for safety and risk assurance, confirmed the threats and individuals making threats to come to the campus.
Tabassum, another student, criticized the university's decision to cancel her event, stating it was a result of a campaign of hate meant to silence her voice.
She believed the threats were due to her advocacy for human rights for all.
A Hamas attack on October 7 resulted in the deaths of 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli figures.
In response, Israel launched a retaliatory offensive that has killed at least 33,843 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.
The conflict's fallout has been felt globally, with intense debates on US college campuses between pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian groups over alleged victimization and silencing.
On Wednesday, the president of Columbia University will face questions from US lawmakers regarding her institution's efforts to combat anti-Semitism.