A significant percentage of the student population organized a walkout as Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin was set to speak at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). At the Greater Richmond Convention Center event, a number of graduates stood up in protest. In light of the ongoing bloodshed in Gaza, some voiced support for the Palestinian people, while others demonstrated against Youngkin’s methods of instruction.
Governor Youngkin, who was awarded an honorary doctorate of humane letters at the occasion, persisted in addressing the students and encouraged them to pursue their future endeavors to the fullest despite the walkout. His words appeared to imply that the graduates should arrange their work like a symphony, in spite of the ongoing battle.
The protesters formed a circle around the venue, chanting things like “No books, no peace, let the knowledge increase” and “Disclose, divest, we will not stop, we will not rest.” Their actions served as a metaphor for more significant disputes that have been seen on American college campuses, where social and political issues are increasingly influencing academic rituals.
Parallel protests and walkouts at other commencement ceremonies are a part of a larger student movement that has affected colleges around the nation, including VCU. The increase in student activism on campuses shows how keen students are to use these platforms to voice their complaints and demand changes, particularly in regards to international issues and local educational programs.
Given the ongoing debate and controversy surrounding such public shows of dissent at academic institutions, the university and the governor’s office were contacted for comments on the event.