Pro-Palestine Support at Ohio State Graduation Amid Tragic Campus Death

Abdi Muktar, a graduate of Ohio State University, reminisced on his challenging journey as he stood with his college diploma at the south end of Ohio Stadium. His college career started amid the COVID-19 pandemic, with remote learning from his childhood bedroom. Despite the obstacles, Muktar successfully completed his major in political science after five years of perseverance.

Support for Palestine Evident at Commencement

Muktar and many other graduates visibly displayed their support for Palestine during the commencement ceremony. The event took place amidst ongoing campus protests advocating for ceasefires in Gaza and university divestment from Israel. The graduates wore traditional black and white keffiyehs and carried flags to show solidarity with the cause.

Ohio State's graduation was not the only ceremony affected by the current global conflict. Similar protests occurred at other universities, with students calling for attention to the crisis in the Middle East. Melissa Shivers, Ohio State's senior vice president of student life, emphasized the importance of focusing on and celebrating the graduates despite the disruptions.

Graduates Express Hope for the Future

Despite the somber backdrop, many graduates like Firas Abdullatif and Serena Khaled expressed their hope for a better future. Abdullatif, originally from Gaza, highlighted the significance of his degree in contributing to a brighter tomorrow. Khaled, who plans to attend medical school, proudly wore a keffiyeh and expressed her desire to do more to help the cause.

Christopher Pan, the commencement speaker and Ohio State alum, subtly alluded to the Israel-Hamas conflict in his speech. He emphasized the need to end suffering on both sides and promoted inner peace as a catalyst for world peace. Pan's message resonated with the graduates, although his mention of Bitcoin sparked mixed reactions from the audience.

Tragedy Strikes Ohio Stadium

The graduation ceremony was overshadowed by a tragic incident as reports surfaced of a person falling to their death from Ohio Stadium. The scene was surrounded by yellow tape, and law enforcement officials were present to handle the situation. The news left many in attendance stunned and cast a shadow over the day of celebration.