Student Protest Erupts at Columbia University Commencement

Columbia University Commencement Disrupted by Student Protest for Palestinian Activist New York, May 22, 2025 – The commencement ceremony at Columbia University in New York City was unexpectedly interrupted on May 20th by a student protest in support of detained Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil. Students chanted "Free Mahmoud" and booed President Claire Shipman during her address. One student, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, "We couldn't stand idly by while an injustice like this was happening. We had to show our solidarity with Mahmoud and demand his release." Another student added, "President Shipman's silence on this issue is deafening. We need our university to take a stand for human rights." The protest underscores the growing student activism surrounding Palestinian rights on American college campuses. The demonstration concluded peacefully, highlighting the students' commitment to peaceful protest and their passion for the cause.