Protests at Columbia University Graduation Amid Ongoing Detention of Activist
New York: A noticeable absence marked Wednesday’s graduation ceremony at Columbia University, particularly that of Mahmoud Khalil, a student leader of pro-Palestinian protests currently in detention.
As the school’s interim president, Claire Shipman, took to the podium, students interrupted her with chants of, “Boo… I’m embarrassed by you!”
Columbia has been a hub for demonstrations advocating for an end to violence in Gaza for the last 18 months, and recently, some student protesters have faced arrests under the Trump administration.
Khalil has been a prominent figure in nationwide campus protests against the Israeli military actions in Gaza and has now been detained for over two months due to his activism. While he holds permanent residency in the U.S., he faces deportation.
Before the ceremony, attendees were cautioned via loudspeakers that disruptions were not permitted and that violators might be removed. Still, chants of “Free Mahmoud” echoed through the audience.
Some students adorned themselves with symbols of the Palestinian cause, opting for keffiyehs instead of traditional caps and gowns.
Amid light rain and chilly temperatures, Shipman addressed the graduating class of 16,000 as they left their various programs. She expressed a commitment to ensuring that international students enjoy the same free speech rights as all others, stating they should not be targeted by government actions when exercising those rights.
“I know many in our community mourn the absence of graduate Mahmoud Khalil,” she continued, launching into a plea for the defense of democracy, which she characterized as “the essential work of your generation.”
Though she didn’t name President Trump directly, Shipman defended academic institutions as vital components of a healthy democracy.
The White House has been criticized for targeting educational institutions, cutting $400 million in federal aid to Columbia over disagreements and arresting students involved in the pro-Palestinian movement.
Earlier this month, 80 pro-Palestinian students were arrested at Columbia while trying to occupy the main library. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that authorities might reconsider the visa status of those involved, potentially leading to deportations.
Khalil, a recent graduate, is currently in a detention center in Louisiana and faces deportation amidst accusations of supporting the Palestinian group Hamas.
His lawyer reported that immigration officials have prohibited Khalil from hugging his newborn son, as his wife Noor Abdallah traveled to Louisiana with the baby.
“This is intentional violence—it tears families apart without remorse,” said Abdallah in a statement.
Students voiced concerns about freedom of speech on campus and expressed disappointment over the university’s inadequate support for it.
“I feel embarrassed every day that my degree is associated with this university,” said Olivia Bryce, a social work master’s student, wearing a keffiyeh over her gown.
Blythe, another student, noted apparent tension during the ceremony as some audience members shouted, “We’ll kick them out!”
Alfred Young, a sociology graduate, appreciated the justice-centered education at Columbia but felt it was disconnected from the administration’s handling of current issues.
“I was honestly surprised President Shipman mentioned Mahmoud. It feels a bit tone-deaf considering the administration’s response,” he remarked.
As the ceremony concluded, graduates tossed their caps, and many embraced amidst a backdrop of protests outside, where demonstrators held signs reading, “There are no graduations in Gaza today.”
