"USC Cancels Pro-Palestinian Valedictorian's Speech Over Safety Concerns"

The University of Southern California has canceled the commencement speech of its Muslim valedictorian, Asna Tabassum, citing security concerns related to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and social media discussions. Tabassum, who expressed shock and disappointment at the decision, believes the university is succumbing to a campaign of hate meant to silence her voice. The university's decision has sparked criticism from the Council on American-Islamic Relations in Los Angeles, which believes the cancellation empowers voices of hate and censorship. The university maintains that the decision is solely based on maintaining campus security and safety, and it has not disclosed specific threats or provided increased safety measures for Tabassum to speak at commencement.