During Duke University’s commencement ceremony on May 12, a significant number of students staged a walkout in protest against the choice of guest speaker, comedian Jerry Seinfeld.
As Seinfeld was introduced to address the graduating class, a group of students stood up, brandishing a Palestinian flag, and exited the venue while chanting “Free Palestine.” The comedian’s previous expressions of support for Israel during the Gaza conflict prompted this demonstration, with reportedly hundreds of students participating in the protest.
Videos circulating on social media captured the moment, confirming the date and location of the incident. In the footage, students dressed in graduation attire are seen leaving the ceremony, while others in the stands above also vacate their seats. One attendee even wore a black-and-white keffiyeh scarf, a symbol of solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
Despite the disruption, Seinfeld was awarded an honorary degree and proceeded to deliver his address to the remaining audience, who erupted in supportive chants of his name. In response to the walkout, Seinfeld humorously acknowledged the controversy, quipping, “A lot of you are thinking, ‘I can’t believe they invited this guy.’ Too late.”
He then pivoted to a discussion about privilege, reflecting on his own upbringing as a Jewish comedian from New York. Seinfeld emphasized the importance of using one’s privilege effectively, drawing from his own experiences.
Seinfeld’s vocal support for Israel has been documented since October 7, when he visited the country and expressed solidarity with its cause alongside other actors.
In response to the incident, Duke University spokesperson Frank Tramble issued a statement affirming the institution’s commitment to peaceful expression of views. The walkout at Duke adds to a series of student-led protests across U.S. campuses, reflecting the heightened tensions surrounding geopolitical issues.
The incident at Duke coincides with similar protests elsewhere, such as at Columbia University, where escalating demonstrations led to the cancellation of the main graduation ceremony due to security concerns. Columbia’s spokesperson expressed regret over the necessity of such a decision, underscoring the challenges faced by universities in managing large-scale events amidst rising activism.
