Fox News Campus Radicals Newsletter: Pride flags removed, DEI back under fire, TV host's Cali criticism

Crybaby College Commencement Protests Are Getting The Boot

A growing number of universities are resisting pressure from student activists seeking to cancel or disrupt commencement speeches by prominent figures, marking a shift in how institutions handle such controversies. This trend comes amid heightened scrutiny of campus activism, particularly around issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, political views, and free speech.

At Harvard University, comedian and talk show host Conan O’Brien addressed graduates on May 28, using his speech to critique the Trump administration. His appearance highlighted a broader issue: commencement addresses, once seen as celebratory occasions, have increasingly become battlegrounds for ideological conflict. In recent years, students have taken to protesting speakers they disagree with, often leading to cancellations or walkouts.

New York University faced one such challenge when it selected social psychologist Jonathan Haidt as its commencement speaker. Despite his academic credentials and contributions to psychological research, Haidt drew criticism from student groups who accused him of making anti-LGBTQ statements and opposing DEI initiatives. These groups demanded his removal, citing concerns over his views on campus viewpoint diversity and critiques of Gen Z’s digital habits.

Despite these objections, NYU stood by its decision. A university spokesperson praised Haidt as "one of the most consequential thinkers of the 21st century," while President Linda Mills, a licensed clinical social worker, emphasized her admiration for his work. On May 14, Mills introduced Haidt to the audience and awarded him an honorary doctorate. While some students booed and left the venue, Haidt proceeded with his speech without incident.

Other universities have also resisted similar pressures. At Rutgers University, the planned commencement speech by Rami Elghandour, an alumnus and CEO of a biotechnology firm, was canceled due to complaints about his past online posts criticizing Israel’s actions in Gaza. Similarly, Utah Valley University canceled an invitation to author Sharon McMahon after she posted critical comments about Charlie Kirk, who was killed on campus earlier in the year.

In Arizona, former Google CEO Eric Schmidt narrowly avoided having his commencement speech canceled. Students opposed to his presence due to allegations involving his former partner raised concerns, but the university administration defended Schmidt, highlighting his contributions to science and technology. President Suresh Garimella praised Schmidt’s impact on research and innovation, ensuring he could deliver his speech unimpeded.

These instances reflect a larger debate over free speech and academic freedom on campuses. Organizations like the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) have tracked numerous attempts to cancel commencement speakers, noting that some efforts succeed while others fail. For example, South Carolina State University canceled a speech by Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, who was running for governor, due to her criticisms of DEI policies and support for Donald Trump.

The resistance from certain universities indicates a willingness to defend invited speakers despite student opposition. However, tensions remain high, especially regarding DEI policies and political stances. The Department of Education recently launched an investigation into DEI programs at Arizona State University, signaling continued oversight and potential regulatory action.

As these events unfold, the role of commencement addresses continues to evolve. What was once a straightforward celebration of academic achievement has transformed into a complex arena for ideological expression and confrontation. Universities must navigate these challenges carefully, balancing the rights of speakers with the concerns of their student populations. Whether this trend will lead to lasting changes in how campuses handle controversial topics remains uncertain, but the current landscape suggests that the battle over free speech and academic values is far from over.