MIT Student Barred from Graduation After Pro-Palestinian Speech Sparks Controversy

CAMBRDIGE, MA — June 1, 2025 Megha Vemuri, president of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Class of 2025, was prohibited from attending her graduation ceremony after delivering a pro-Palestinian speech during a campus event. Vemuri had been scheduled to speak at commencement but was barred following what the university described as violations of protest-related policies.

Her remarks, delivered at a senior reflection event, criticized MIT’s research ties to the Israeli military and called for an end to institutional complicity in the Gaza conflict. According to MIT, Vemuri failed to adhere to agreed guidelines for the speech and misled organizers about its content. As a result, both she and her family were denied entry to the commencement ceremony.

The incident has sparked widespread reaction, drawing both support and criticism. Supporters see Vemuri’s speech as an act of conscience during a moment of global crisis, while critics argue that the platform was misused for political activism. MIT emphasized its commitment to free expression but stated that events must follow clearly defined rules regarding time, place, and manner.

Vemuri, who studied computer science, neuroscience, and linguistics, was affiliated with the student group Written Revolution. She has not yet issued a public statement in response to the university’s decision.

The controversy highlights growing tensions on college campuses nationwide over student activism and institutional responses, especially related to the war in Gaza. Debates continue over how universities can balance free speech with campus policy enforcement in polarized political climates.

*Sources:
*https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/01/us/mit-graduation-palestine-megha-vemuri