Xavier University of Louisiana and the University of Vermont both rescinded their commencement invitations to United Nations Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield due to student and community outcry over the conflict in the Gaza Strip. Xavier President Dr. Reynold Verret described the decision to disinvite Thomas-Greenfield as regrettable, citing pressure from students who wanted to enjoy a disruption-free graduation ceremony. The universities made the decision in collaboration with Thomas-Greenfield’s team, who expressed her eagerness to continue engaging with young people on campuses nationwide to inspire the next generation of diplomats.
The initial announcement of Thomas-Greenfield as commencement speaker at Xavier came on May 5, but just three days later, over 1,700 individuals signed a petition urging the university to revoke the invitation. The petition called for an end to the politicization of the graduation ceremony and highlighted the ambassador’s voting record at the U.N., including her stance against measures advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza. Despite the backlash, Thomas-Greenfield remains committed to engaging with students and had recently visited a high school in Philadelphia, where she met with Palestinian students.
University of Vermont also withdrew its invitation to Thomas-Greenfield to speak at its commencement ceremony, citing campus demonstrations and frustrations over U.S. foreign policy decisions. President Suresh Garimella acknowledged the cancellation with regret and expressed understanding of the students’ concerns. The decision to disinvite Thomas-Greenfield was made formally last summer, before recent events in the Gaza Strip unfolded. The ambassador, undeterred by the protests, was prepared to deliver her remarks at both universities but understood the need to prioritize honoring graduates and their achievements.
Throughout her nearly 40-year career in government, Thomas-Greenfield has held various diplomatic roles and was appointed as U.N. ambassador at the beginning of the Biden administration. In response to the protests on college campuses, she emphasized the importance of listening to students while condemning violence as a means of conveying messages. Despite the cancellations at Xavier and the University of Vermont, President Biden is scheduled to address graduates at Morehouse College without any alterations to the commencement plans. The historically Black college in Atlanta has not been affected by student protests leading up to the graduation ceremony.
