(NEW YORK) — In recent days, both New York University and George Washington University have announced investigations and disciplinary action—including the withholding of a diploma—affecting student speakers who deviated from their pre-approved remarks at commencement ceremonies. Both students said they felt compelled to use their platforms to call attention to the war in Gaza.
In response, Kristen Shahverdian, program director for Campus Free Speech released the following statement:
“Student speakers should not face disciplinary action for their remarks at commencement, regardless of whether or not they deviate from approved drafts. Elevating student voices at commencement ceremonies is an opportunity to practice free speech and celebrate civic engagement, and there exists a long tradition of students using these speeches to voice their opinions. While university leaders are free to condemn or publicly disagree with students’ remarks, responding to these speeches with discipline is wrongheaded. At NYU, in particular, the threat of withholding a commencement speaker’s diploma is especially disproportionate and alarming. At a time when speech that is pro-Palestinian or critical of the Israeli government is already being chilled on campuses, these universities risk exacerbating those tensions. Rather than erring on the side of discipline, we urge these universities to err on the side of speech.”
About PEN America
PEN America stands at the intersection of literature and human rights to protect free expression in the United States and worldwide. We champion the freedom to write, recognizing the power of the word to transform the world. Our mission is to unite writers and their allies to celebrate creative expression and defend the liberties that make it possible. Learn more at pen.org.
Contact: Malka Margolies, [email protected], 718-530-3582