A Graduation Marred by Turmoil
The air crackled with a mix of pride and trepidation at Harvard University’s 374th commencement ceremony. While graduates, adorned in their ceremonial robes, celebrated the culmination of their academic journeys, a palpable tension hung over the hallowed grounds of Harvard Yard. The joyful atmosphere was frequently punctured by a relentless political firestorm, casting a long shadow over the achievements being celebrated. The university found itself under siege, not from external forces, but from the very institutions that should be its protectors. The graduating class, a microcosm of global diversity, found their moment of triumph interwoven with anxieties about the future and the challenges they would face in a rapidly changing world. This was not just a graduation; it was a testament to resilience and the unwavering commitment to values that Harvard held dear.
The Clash of Ideals
At the heart of the storm was a clash of ideals, a battle between the pursuit of knowledge and the forces of division and fear. Yurong “Luanna” Jiang, the graduate orator, captured the prevailing sentiment in her speech. She spoke of her pride in working with classmates from around the world, a generation she hoped would end hunger and poverty. But her hopes were dashed by the reality of a world increasingly fractured by conflict and suspicion. Harvard President Alan Garber acknowledged the political climate with a veiled reference to the administration’s attempts to restrict international students. His words, and those of others who championed diversity, were met with applause, a clear indication of the values that the university stood for. The situation was far from ideal, however. The university community grappled with fear that constant attacks from the Trump administration would harm Harvard’s reputation and its research capabilities, potentially diminishing the value of a Harvard degree. What’s happening? Where is this all taking place? And what is the end result?
The Weight of Political Pressure
The pressure was relentless. Federal agencies were ordered to terminate contracts with the institution, a move that cost millions. News of the revoking of visas for Chinese students added to the anxieties, putting the future of over a thousand students at risk. These actions sent shockwaves across the university, as embassies refused to approve visas for students enrolled in programs at Harvard. Despite the uncertainty, the graduates and their professors tried to maintain a semblance of normalcy. Jeff Brussel, who came to celebrate his nephew, highlighted the political “ridiculousness” surrounding the university, yet expressed his confidence in Harvard’s ability to endure. He offered a perspective, believing that Trump’s actions were temporary and that Harvard would prevail. The consequences, however, were real, and the impact on students, particularly international students, was deeply felt. Why was this happening? And what was the impact on those directly involved?
Voices of Resilience
Amidst the storm, voices of resilience emerged. Maria Bustamante Molina, a master’s graduate, struggled to reconcile the joy of commencement with the attacks from the Trump administration. She recognized the need to support international students, who bore the brunt of the political actions. Outside the ceremony, protesters gathered, expressing their concerns, including Eva Moseley, a 93-year-old Harvard alum, who held a sign supporting Gaza. The graduation ceremony was a complex moment for all, as students, faculty, and guests grappled with the political realities. The main speaker, Abraham Verghese, noted the “unprecedented moment” and lauded the university for upholding its values, acknowledging the gratitude of many who appreciated Harvard’s stance. In all of this, the students were trying to stay strong, as well as the professors and people of Harvard in general. How were they coping with all of this?
A Future Forged in Uncertainty
As the ceremony drew to a close, the mixed emotions were evident. Doctoral graduate Thomas Werkmeister expressed his pride in Harvard, yet also his dismay. His research lab had lost funding, affecting his international classmates. Werkmeister’s decision to move to Columbia University reflected the challenges faced by the university community. The situation was a clear indication of the uncertain times. The commencement ceremony became a symbol of the struggles faced by institutions and individuals in a polarized world. It was a testament to the ability to strive for academic pursuits and maintain principles, even when faced with political turbulence. The graduates now faced the future, ready to navigate the challenges that lay ahead. What does the future hold for these graduates? And what can we learn from this experience?