USC Valedictorian speaks out after University cancels graduation speech

University of Southern California valedictorian, Asna Tabassum, was barred from speaking at this year's commencement ceremony after pro-Israel groups raised concerns over her social media posts in support of Palestinians. MSNBC’s Ayman Mohyeldin speaks to Tabassum about USC’s decision and what she plans to do next.



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USC Valedictorian speaks out after University cancels graduation speech

#Israel #Palestine #Gaza

[Kick_Rocks]

Why can’t anyone criticize Israel? I would like an answer.

[OurlostIsland]

Ashamed but not surprised at my alma mater. They prioritize the will of their wealthy donors and offer only lip-service when it comes to their marginalized students.

[jeromepringle]

They stopped her from speaking at the school and now she is speaking to the world. Lol.

[davidbible]

Being the “wrong” religion and being punished for it. Not what America is supposed to be about.

[amritrao]

USC taught Tabassum what genocide was and is giving her a degree in bio engineering and genocide studies, yet she’s punished for speaking out against Israel committing a genocide of Palestinians

[patriciaperdasofpy]

LOVE Asna!!! What an inspiring human. She did not express rightious bitterness or anger just love and gratitude for the University. I have faith that she will help to change our world.

[krislee]

Thank you for having her on your show Ayman!

[artemmandrob]

Bullying. Some American college students are uncomfortable. Universities in Gaza have been reduced to rubble. Teachers and students in Gaza have been killed in indiscriminate bombing. Where is the talk of student safety for the students, doctors, teachers, bakers, aid-workers, mothers, fathers and children of Gaza? Thank you speaking out Asna Tabassum.

[Em-fhqc]

Her answer at 4:21 just demonstrates how intelligent and insightful she is. Academic based discourse is necessary to any healthy democracy.

[xpressvisa]

One option she can podcast her speech and post it on multiple media outlets.

[Brock]

I hope this lady gives her speech somewhere. Would love to hear it, whether I agree with her or not.

[mezh]

USC and all these universities are acting so ridiculous. What safety concerns?!

[AliKrys]

Thank you Asma. Keep raising your voice. Free Palestine.

[pamferdinand]

I paraphrase: I may not like what you say, but I shall defend to the death your right to say it. Grow up, USC. Free speech engenders controversy. That is as it should be.

[Superflowerpowera]

It's very evident why she was chosen as the valedictorian. What an incrediblely poised and well-spoken young lady.

[agriope]

They are just telling us how powerful they think she is. One speech is too much?

[wwechampion]

USC taking away her platform to speak just kickstarted her career. She'll have an even bigger platform now

[williamturnier]

I am a retired university professor and I have sat through about four decades of graduation ceremonies. I sat through many in which I heard the speaker reinforce my personal beliefs and many in which the speaker spoke in opposition to those views. I have thought about graduation ceremonies and have concluded that they basically exist to celebrate the achievements of the graduates and their families which supported them. Those families did not attend to hear anyone’s politics. Best to do away with all presentations by people to speak on either side of our debates. Give the graduates and families a Pat on the back and then give the students their diplomas and let all go free for their private celebrations.

[xivreqt]

Why don't you broadcast your speech on Youtube?

[Netcentric-fkek]

sorry....did I just roll my eyes out loud?