U of Columbia President Shafik Postpones Graduation Ceremonies Citing Security Concerns- Students Opposing Postponement Consider Ceremonies Being Held at A Separate Location

STATE & NATIONAL: This week, the week that college graduation ceremonies are continuing to be conducted in parts of the US, Columbia University President, Minouche Shafik, has determined the need to postpone graduation ceremonies. By some , it is presumed that Shafik's decision is directly associated with the ongoing Israel Hamas conflict and the security risks that accompany ongoing pro-Palestinian protests there. By Anne M. Erbynstein

This weekend, reports from Columbia University's chief administrator indicates that the decision to postpone Columbia University’s graduation ceremonies is related to ongoing campus protests, which are connected to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The university cited security concerns following weeks of pro-Palestinian protests on campus. These protests were in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The pro-Palestinian protests that have erupted on the campus of the University of Columbia have led to the NYPD being called in to clear the campus grounds of protesters.  Over the last 2 weeks, university officials cited these protests as chaotic and the resulting turmoil on campus as the main security concerns. The decision to cancel the main commencement was made after discussions with student leaders.

In response to these concerns, the university decided to replace its university-wide commencement ceremony with smaller-scale, school-based celebrations. Shafik  caused significant disruption on campus, the university has not explicitly stated that the decision to postpone the graduation ceremonies was directly due to the Israel-Hamas conflict

The university decided to replace its university-wide commencement ceremony with smaller-scale, school-based celebrations, however, the university has not explicitly stated that the decision was directly due to the Israel-Hamas conflict.

While there has been some have mention of “security concerns” as a primary reason for the decision graduating students appear to be the only people baring the brunt of events that are beyond their responsibility. It is possible for the 2024 Columbia graduates' ceremony to be held in a location off campus while their alma mater remains embroiled in turmoil.