Overview

• Jean-Paul Al-Arab, a criminology graduate at the University at Buffalo, carried his infant son across the stage during his commencement ceremony despite being instructed not to by university officials.
• The university enforces a rule prohibiting non-graduates, including infants, from participating in the ceremony to ensure safety and order.
• Viral footage of the incident shows Al-Arab being pursued by campus police but successfully crossing the stage to cheers from the audience.
• Al-Arab stated that he made the gesture to honor a personal promise to his son, highlighting the challenges of balancing fatherhood, work, and full-time studies.
• The university confirmed Al-Arab will still receive his diploma and face no disciplinary action, while the video has sparked widespread social media discussions about inclusivity at graduation ceremonies.