McGill University Graduation Ceremony Marred by Student's Disrespectful Act

A video circulating on social media platforms shows a student from McGill University, who was graduating, seemingly spitting at the Dean and another faculty member during the ceremony. This act was met with cheers from the crowd.

Student's Demand for Divestment from Israel

The student, in question, also displayed a sign demanding the university to divest from Israel. The crowd can be heard cheering as she seemingly spits at the President Deep Saini and another faculty member.

University's Response to the Incident

The university reportedly edited out this distasteful incident from the video of the ceremony and has not confirmed if any disciplinary action will be taken against the student. The student can be seen in the video making the spitting gestures while wearing a keffiyeh and holding a sign that says “Divest from death.” When asked about the edited video, the university did not deny the incident but stated that their multimedia staff often cut to different angles during the livestream to focus on different aspects of the ceremony. This allows students and their families to celebrate an important milestone.

Previous Protests at Graduation Ceremonies

This incident is not the first of its kind. Graduation ceremonies have witnessed similar protests in the past. In a recent incident, an animal activist showered interim Harvard President Alan M. Garber with green glitter during the ceremony. The activist, Brittany A. Drake, was charged with three counts of felony criminal charges but pleaded not guilty.

McGill's Stance on the Incident

As of now, McGill University has not committed to seeking any disciplinary action against the student involved in the spitting incident. This incident highlights the erosion of civility and respect within our higher education institutions.

Activism Over Academics

This kind of behavior has been encouraged by professors and administrators for years, prioritizing activism over academics. Students at McGill have previously stated that “free speech does not exist outside of its social context” and have tried to strip professors of their academic titles due to differing views. There has also been a lack of discipline for students who disrupt events and classes.

McGill's Approach to Misconduct

While McGill is known for being one of the world's top universities, it has shown little initiative or bravery in dealing with disruptive and disgraceful behavior in the past. Simply removing the scene of the student spitting at the President will not address this ongoing issue. As academics, there needs to be a reassertion of control over our campuses and a firm stand against disruptive behavior.

Closing Thoughts

This incident at McGill University raises questions about the balance between freedom of speech and maintaining decorum at academic institutions. It also highlights the need for universities to take a firm stand against disruptive behavior. What are your thoughts on this incident? Do you think universities should take stricter actions against such behavior? Share this article with your friends and engage in a conversation. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.