Overview

• 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.