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A New York University student has had his diploma put on hold after delivering a controversial speech during graduation in which he criticized Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Logan Rozos, a graduating student from the Gallatin School of Individualized Study, characterized these actions as a genocide supported by the United States.
During his speech, Rozos stated, “The genocide currently occurring is supported politically and militarily by the United States, is paid for by our tax dollars and has been livestreamed to our phones for the past 18 months.” His remarks elicited a mixed response from the audience, with some expressing support and giving him a standing ovation while others voiced their disapproval.
The video of the speech quickly gained traction online, prompting pro-Israel groups to call for swift and decisive action from the university against Rozos. In a formal statement, NYU spokesperson John Beckman condemned the speech, expressing that the university felt “deeply sorry” for the audience who had to hear those remarks.
Beckman asserted that Rozos had deviated from his approved script and stated that as part of ongoing disciplinary actions, the university has decided to withhold his diploma. He emphasized that Rozos had misrepresented the content of his speech and had breached the agreement to adhere to the university’s standards.
“He lied about the speech he was going to deliver and violated the commitment he made to comply with our rules,” Beckman remarked. Furthermore, he added, “NYU is deeply sorry that the audience was subjected to these remarks and that this moment was stolen by someone who abused a privilege that was conferred upon him.”
Rozos, who was recognized by fellow students for his role in the Gallatin Theater Troupe, felt a strong sense of responsibility to address the audience regarding the ongoing situation in Palestine. He articulated his commitment by saying, “My moral and political commitment guide me to say that the only thing that is appropriate to say in this time and to a group this large is a recognition of the atrocities currently happening in Palestine.”
His statements have drawn both criticism and praise, highlighting the polarized sentiments surrounding topics of international conflict on college campuses. Pro-Jewish organizations have heavily criticized Rozos’ comments and have commended NYU for its prompt response to the situation.
The Anti-Defamation League expressed their stance, stating, “No student — especially Jewish students — should have to sit through politicized rhetoric that promotes harmful lies about Israel during such a personal milestone.” They praised the NYU administration for its rapid condemnation and pursuit of disciplinary measures in this regard.
Prior to the controversy, Rozos was noted for his academic focus in cultural criticism and political economy. However, his online profile has since been removed from the university’s website. A documentary non-profit, Fireflight Media, described him as an actor, artist, and gay Black trans man, detailing his acting debut in the Peabody-nominated series “David Makes Man” in 2019.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has triggered a significant wave of student activism across various college campuses, including NYU. Last year, protests related to this issue escalated, leading to numerous arrests and confrontations between opposing groups.
NYU is also one of ten universities currently under investigation by a task force formed by the Trump administration. This task force is looking into how universities have addressed alleged incidents of antisemitism, particularly in the context of the Israel-Gaza conflict.
This situation underlines the complex dynamics at play in modern educational institutions, where discussions about international issues can lead to significant consequences. As universities continue to navigate these charged political landscapes, the impact on student voices and their rights remains a deeply debated topic.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
