Columbia University Offers Optional Multicultural Graduation Ceremonies

Misbar’s investigation showed no instances of unconstitutional behavior by Columbia University. The word “segregated” is misleading, as it holds historical connotations of oppression. The original article from The College Fix led with misleading headlines, but acknowledged that these ceremonies, “do not replace ceremonies for the whole Ivy League University.”  

Columbia University used their official Twitter to address the viral stories. “Reports today misrepresent our multicultural graduation celebrations, which exist in addition to, not instead of University-wide commencement,” they said. Ceremonies have been practiced this way for years, and they do not overlap, so students can attend more than one ceremony if they choose. No forced attendance occurs and no denial of a request to attend is issued. 

Similar multicultural graduation ceremonies are regularly practiced at numerous universities across the country, and the practice is nothing new. The Columbia Spectator reported on the story, saying “For underrepresented Columbia students, these events are often hard-won commemorations of surviving what can be a hostile institutional and social environment.” For example, first-generation, low-income students spent years pushing for a unique ceremony before it was granted in 2017.

Media outlets sharing these reports indicate selectivity. The story does not contain any actual news.