The University of Southern California opts for multiple smaller events following safety concerns and recent arrests linked to ongoing protests.

The University of Southern California (USC) has called off its primary graduation ceremony slated for May 10, as protests related to the Israel-Hamas conflict escalate across college campuses in the United States. The decision reflects growing security concerns and logistical challenges posed by these demonstrations, which have led to numerous arrests.

The controversy initially ignited over USC’s decision to bar valedictorian Asna Tabassum from speaking, following opposition from pro-Israel groups. This move has stirred significant dissent within the student body, attracting attention from both pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel factions on campus.

USC President Carol Folt, facing pressure from multiple fronts, remarked on the difficulty of balancing the institution’s traditional commencement protocols with the safety and well-being of attendees. In lieu of the grand ceremony that usually hosts around 65,000 participants, the university will instead conduct 23 smaller, school-specific ceremonies. These events are designed to offer a more personalized and secure celebration for graduates and their families.

These scaled-down gatherings are part of a broader adjustment to the university’s commencement schedule, which now spans from May 8 to 11. Enhanced security measures, including metal detectors and X-ray bag inspections, will be implemented, mirroring the precautions taken at major athletic events.

Despite the scaled-back main event, USC aims to preserve the festive spirit of graduation. New additions to the commencement program include the release of doves, performances by the Trojan Marching Band, and numerous opportunities for graduates to mingle with peers, faculty, and loved ones across various campus locations.

The university also specified that each graduate would receive eight tickets, with an option to request additional passes through an appeal process, ensuring that families can participate in these milestone events while adhering to new safety protocols.