Colson Whitehead Withdraws from UMass Commencement Amid Protest Crackdown

The acclaimed author cancels his speech at UMass Amherst, protesting the administration's handling of student demonstrations.

Colson Whitehead, a two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, pulled out as UMass Amherst's commencement speaker due to the university's response to pro-Palestinian protests.
The university's decision to involve police in clearing a student encampment sparked significant backlash, leading to Whitehead's withdrawal.
Over 130 individuals, including students, were arrested at UMass following the administration's orders to disperse the protesters.
This incident is part of a larger pattern of universities calling police on student protesters, affecting commencement events nationwide.
Other notable figures, including novelists and academics, have also canceled their commencement speeches at various universities in solidarity.