Acting President Claire Shipman’s graduation address at Columbia University was interrupted by chants of “Free Mahmoud,” as students protested the detention of a pro-Palestinian graduate student, exposing deep campus divisions and sparking broader debate about free speech and government overreach.
At a Glance
- Students disrupted Columbia’s commencement with chants of “Free Mahmoud” supporting detained graduate Mahmoud Khalil
- Khalil, a Syrian-born green card holder, remains in ICE custody over allegations of immigration fraud and unverified ties to Hamas
- President Shipman defended international students’ speech rights during the interrupted ceremony
- Outside protests led to two arrests, including one student who burned a diploma
- The incident highlights rising tensions at Columbia amid pro-Palestinian activism and administrative change
Ceremony Erupts in Protest
Graduation at Columbia University turned contentious as Acting President Claire Shipman acknowledged Mahmoud Khalil’s absence during her address. Khalil, a graduating student from Syria, is being held by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Louisiana, sparking student outrage.
As Shipman mentioned Khalil, chants of “Free Mahmoud” erupted from the audience, partially drowning out her remarks. Despite the disruption, she continued, stating: “I know that many of you feel some amount of frustration with me and with the administration. And I know we have a strong tradition of free speech at this university.”
Khalil’s detention stems from ICE allegations of immigration fraud and national security concerns, though no formal links to Hamas have been publicly confirmed. A judge has allowed his deportation proceedings to continue but deferred judgment on the fraud claims.
Free Speech and International Rights
Shipman used the moment to affirm Columbia’s commitment to civil liberties: “We firmly believe that our international students have the same rights to freedom of speech as everyone else, and they should not be targeted by the government for exercising that right.”
This defense comes amid rising scrutiny of federal actions against international students involved in political advocacy. Civil rights groups argue Khalil’s detention represents a troubling escalation in policing student dissent, especially on sensitive global issues like the conflict in Gaza.
Watch a report: Columbia Graduation Disrupted by “Free Mahmoud” Chants.
A Divided Campus and Nation
Reactions to Shipman’s comments varied. Some applauded her affirmation of student rights, while others, like one student identified only as Ethan, criticized perceived bias: “Columbia has shown a clear attachment to the side of Palestine. There’s no need to extend an olive branch to the side you are on.”
Protests outside the ceremony mirrored these tensions. Demonstrators displayed Palestinian flags, carried banners opposing ICE, and called for broader protections for international students. Two students were arrested, including one who burned their diploma in symbolic protest.
The case also recalls that of Mohsen Mahdawi, another international student previously detained under similar circumstances. A judge recently ruled Mahdawi’s detention likely violated his free speech rights. He attended the ceremony, describing his emotions as “mixed” but “victorious.”
Amid leadership turnover—Shipman assumed the presidency in March—Columbia faces mounting pressure to address its role in national debates on speech, protest, and political identity. The disruption at graduation underscores how student activism continues to challenge institutional norms in an era of heightened polarization.
