Student Speaks Out During Graduation Ceremony

New York University (NYU) has decided to withhold the diploma of a student who used his commencement speech to speak about the Israel-Hamas war, calling out what he described as the “atrocities in Palestine.”

The speech was given by Logan Rozos during the Gallatin School’s graduation ceremony, one of over 20 events held across NYU’s campus.

University Condemns Unapproved Remarks

In a statement, NYU criticized the student for going against the agreed rules, stating:

“He misused his position to share personal, one-sided political views, which he did not have permission to present.”

The university added that Rozos had misled officials about the content of his speech and broke the commitment he made to follow NYU’s guidelines.

Controversial Speech Goes Viral

Rozos opened his speech by expressing that he was nervous, but said his “moral and political commitments” compelled him to speak up.

“The only thing that feels right to say at this time, to such a large group, is to recognize the atrocities currently happening in Palestine,” he said.

He went on to say that the violence was supported by the U.S. government and funded by American tax dollars, calling it a genocide.

“I want to speak not just from my own views, but for all people of conscience,” he said, ending with a strong condemnation of the war and the U.S.’s role in it.

Mixed Reactions from Audience and Community

While some students applauded and cheered, others criticized the moment.
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) responded strongly, saying it was “appalled” by the speech and thanked NYU for taking disciplinary action.

Diploma Withheld as Disciplinary Measures Begin

NYU confirmed it is now withholding Rozos’ diploma while an investigation is ongoing.

“The audience should not have been subjected to such remarks,” the university stated. “This was a moment stolen by someone who abused a privilege granted to him.”