News

Duke University Students Stage Walkout During Jerry Seinfeld’s Commencement Speech

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.

Amrita Bhandari

Recent Posts

Justin Timberlake Arrested for Drunken Driving in the Hamptons

Pop star Justin Timberlake was charged with drunken driving early Tuesday in the Hamptons village…

5 months ago

The Musk Effect: Elon’s Leadership and Vision Propel Tesla’s Market and Valuation

The recent events surrounding Elon Musk and Tesla have highlighted the profound impact of his…

5 months ago

Shakib Al Hasan’s Fiery Response to Critics Echoes Across T20 World Cup

Bangladesh's star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan silenced his critics with a stellar performance against the…

5 months ago

Kylie Jenner Opens Up About Decades of Cyberbullying and Family Insecurities on ‘The Kardashians’

In a recent emotional episode of "The Kardashians," Kylie Jenner opened up to her sister…

5 months ago

England Sets Record for Fastest T20 World Cup Win with Dominant Victory Over Oman

In a historic T20 World Cup match on Friday (June 14) at the Sir Vivian…

5 months ago

Shakira Opens Up About Painful Split from Gerard Piqué: “The Darkest Time of My Life

Shakira and Gerard Piqué met in 2010 and were together for more than a decade.…

5 months ago