Los Angeles Times

USC cancels ‘main stage’ commencement ceremony

USC announced the cancellation of its main May commencement ceremony on Thursday, citing the need for heightened security measures and the time required to accommodate large numbers of guests. The decision follows a series of controversial moves, beginning with informing valedictorian Asna Tabassum, opposed by pro-Israel groups, that she would not deliver the traditional speech. In the aftermath, USC faced protests from both pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel activists, leading to additional cancellations, including a speech by director Jon M. Chu and appearances by honorary doctorate recipients such as tennis star Billie Jean King. While USC's satellite ceremonies for its schools and colleges will continue as scheduled, the main stage event's cancellation marks a significant shift. The university emphasizes the introduction of new activities and celebrations to make the commencement memorable, and all events will require tickets and designated entry points for access.