Harvard Graduation: Celebration and Defiance Amidst Legal Battle

Harvard Graduation Marked by Defiance Amidst Trump Administration Legal Battle Harvard University's 2025 graduation ceremony was a blend of celebration and defiance as the institution continues its legal fight against the Trump administration's attempts to restrict international student enrollment. MSNBC's Antonia Hylton reported from the campus, capturing the mood of both graduates and faculty. "The mood was celebratory, but defiant," Hylton observed, noting the palpable tension underlying the festive atmosphere. The video shows the large number of graduates and the overall festive atmosphere. The report highlights President Alan Garber's speech, which was met with a one-minute standing ovation, a testament to the university's unity in the face of adversity. One graduating student interviewed by Hylton expressed deep concern: "Without international students, Harvard is not Harvard anymore. We might be the last international class." This sentiment reflects the anxieties shared by many international students who fear the ongoing legal battle could affect their ability to study at Harvard. Despite the legal challenges, the graduation ceremony was a powerful symbol of resilience and the enduring spirit of the university. The event underscores the importance of international collaboration in higher education and the fight for access to education for all.