The decision by President Carol Folt to revoke a speaking slot for the valedictorian ignited more controversy and catapulted the university further into debates over student activism, free speech, antisemitism and anti-Muslim and anti-Arab hate.
Dozens of student groups expressed being 'outraged and ashamed' at the university and faculty members signed a letter to Folt, claiming her move 'stifles open communication.'
Before the controversy erupted, the sole public indication of Tabassum's political beliefs was a link to a pro-Palestinian website on her Instagram profile, but pro-Israel groups labeled her antisemitic.
Rabbi Dov Wagner, leading the Chabad Jewish center at USC, expressed that the current tension on campus surrounding the valedictorian is unprecedented in his 24-year experience.
[
add
]
[
|
|
...
]