Black Students Push Forward With Graduation Traditions as DEI Policies Tighten

As graduation approaches, Black students and various affinity groups are innovatively commemorating their achievements amid the Trump administration's restrictions on DEI initiatives, which have curtailed on-campus involvement. Historically, specialized graduations have played a key role in recognizing the accomplishments of students from diverse backgrounds. Present governmental directives, however, have dampened these celebrations, prompting graduates to adapt in order to maintain their cherished traditions. Institutions like Harvard University are resisting some of these federal mandates, despite them affecting race-specific events. Harvard has withdrawn funding for its affinity group ceremonies. Yet, Black graduates remain resolute and organized an alternative event off campus, exemplified by Elyse Martin-Smith's initiative with the Black Graduate Student Alliance. Similarly, the University of Kentucky confirmed it will no longer host identity-based graduation activities, prompting students to create their own “Senior Salute” to celebrate their achievements and diverse backgrounds.