The University of Southern California has announced the cancellation of appearances by prominent speakers and honorees at its upcoming graduation ceremony. This decision comes shortly after the institution called off the commencement speech of its Muslim valedictorian, Asna Tabassum, citing security concerns.
USC stated that the move to bar outside speakers from the 2024 commencement on May 10 is aimed at keeping the focus on the graduates. The university had planned to honor individuals such as filmmaker Jon M. Chu, tennis legend Billie Jean King, and geophysicist Marcia McNutt with honorary degrees.
