Graduation: A celebration for all

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At Duke University’s commencement on Sunday, students left the event when Jerry Seinfeld, the speaker, was introduced. The reason behind this was Seinfeld’s public support for Israel. This incident adds to the series of disturbances happening at colleges nationwide.

After the ceremony, the students shouted “Free Palestine” while a group of other graduates mocked them.

Many online comments were made after the walkout, implying that the students were protesting due to Seinfeld’s Jewish background. Some even accused the participants of being antisemitic.

Ex-Illinois Republican Congressman Adam Kinzinger criticized students at Drake University for walking out of a speech by Jerry Seinfeld just because he is Jewish, calling it antisemitism disguised as concern for Gaza.

Democratic U.S. Representative Daniel Goldman from New York recently stated on X that Jerry Seinfeld, a Jewish American, is not connected to Israel’s foreign policy or military defense. Blaming an American Jew for the actions of the Israeli government is a clear example of antisemitism.

The walkout organizers stated that their choice was not based on the actor’s religion, but rather on his outspoken support for Israel. Additionally, the demonstrators demanded that Duke University reveal its investments in Israel and contemplate divesting from companies linked to Israel. They also urged for a halt in the ongoing conflict.

Seinfeld received an honorary degree and delivered his speech without major interruptions.