USC Cancels All Commencement Speakers Amid Controversy Over Valedictorian's Canceled Speech

The University of Southern California has decided to eliminate all outside speakers from its main-stage commencement to maintain focus on graduates following the cancellation of the Muslim valedictorian's speech due to security concerns.

USC has canceled all outside speakers for its 2024 commencement, originally including prominent figures like filmmaker Jon M. Chu and tennis legend Billie Jean King.
The decision follows the controversial cancellation of valedictorian Asna Tabassum's speech, citing security risks amid heightened tensions.
Protests erupted on campus with demonstrators supporting Tabassum and criticizing the university's decision.
USC plans to confer honorary degrees to the affected speakers at future ceremonies.
The university emphasizes the need to focus on the achievements of its graduates during the commencement.