“But Mahmoud’s detainment has shown me that even in the darkest of circumstances, love, community, and hope can still shine through,” Abdalla continued. “I see in all of you gathered here today that same hope, that same love, that same sense of community. And I know that even though Mahmoud is not physically here, his spirit is with us, guiding us forward.”
Abdalla’s speech was followed by a performance by the Resistance Revival Chorus, a group of women who use music to protest injustice and uplift marginalized voices. The chorus sang a medley of songs, including “We Shall Overcome,” “This Land is Your Land,” and “Bella Ciao.”
As the event drew to a close, attendees were invited to sign a giant card that would be sent to Khalil in detention. People lingered, taking photos with each other, embracing, and sharing stories of resistance and resilience. It was a bittersweet moment, a celebration tinged with sorrow for the absence of a man who had fought tirelessly for justice and equality.
But even in Khalil’s absence, his presence was felt throughout the event. His name was on everyone’s lips, his face projected onto the walls, his spirit woven into the fabric of the gathering. And as the crowd dispersed, the echoes of their cheers and chants lingered in the air, a reminder that solidarity and community can transcend borders, bars, and boundaries.
For the students and organizers of the People’s Graduation, this was not just a ceremony; it was a statement of defiance, a declaration of love and solidarity in the face of injustice. And as they left the church, their heads held high, their hearts full, they knew that their fight was far from over — but they also knew that they were not alone.
As one attendee put it, “Today, we celebrated Mahmoud Khalil’s graduation. Tomorrow, we will continue his fight.”
And with that, the People’s Graduation came to an end, but the spirit of resistance and resilience lived on, a beacon of hope in a world that often seems dark and bleak.
The moment of witnessing the birth of a child is a precious one, filled with joy, hope, and anticipation for the future. For Mahmoud Khalil and his wife, this moment was stolen from them, just like many other moments in their lives. As they stood on the stage, surrounded by symbols of achievement and celebration, they couldn’t help but feel the absence of their son Deen, who was born amidst turmoil and uncertainty.
The People’s Graduation ceremony, organized by friends and supporters of Khalil, was a bittersweet reminder of the challenges they have faced as a family. The diplomas on the stage, one for Khalil, one for his wife, and one for their infant son, symbolized their dreams and aspirations for the future. The green onesie draped over a chair with the words “When I grow up, I want to be like my daddy” highlighted the hopes they had for their son, despite the obstacles in their path.
Palestine was at the heart of the event, with speakers sharing stories of loss, resilience, and determination. Traditional Palestinian attire, embroidered thobes, and keffiyehs adorned the attendees, showcasing their pride and connection to their homeland. Remembrance pins with the names of students in Gaza who never got the chance to graduate served as a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict and its impact on families like Khalil’s.
For Khalil and his wife, the People’s Graduation was a moment of solidarity and strength, but also a painful reminder of the sacrifices they have made along the way. Columbia student Aidan Parisi, who was expelled for their activism, expressed mixed emotions about the event, acknowledging the empowerment it brought while lamenting the absence of their friend Mahmoud.
As the ceremony unfolded, it became clear that graduation is not just about a piece of paper or a stage. It is about resilience, community, and standing up for what you believe in, even in the face of adversity. Maryam Alwan, a Palestinian-American student at Columbia, reminded those who had faced disciplinary actions from their universities that their worth and accomplishments extend far beyond a diploma.
In a world where institutions like NYU withhold diplomas from students who speak out against injustice, the value of education and graduation is called into question. James Schamus, a professor at Columbia, reflected on the emptiness of institutions that prioritize silence over justice, highlighting the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of backlash.
The People’s Graduation was a powerful reminder that true achievement lies not in a piece of paper, but in the courage to speak out against injustice, the resilience to overcome obstacles, and the love and support of a community that stands with you, no matter what. For Mahmoud Khalil and his family, this moment was a testament to their strength and determination in the face of adversity, a reminder that their dreams and aspirations for the future will not be stolen from them, no matter the challenges they may face. In response to the question of what the immediate answer might be, the response could be: Nothing. The sentiment behind this response is deeply rooted in a sense of helplessness and despair, particularly in the face of ongoing injustices and oppression. However, as highlighted in a recent event at Columbia University, there is still hope and resilience to be found in the midst of adversity.
The event, described as “a beautiful night of unity, celebration, mourning, and grief,” served as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing in solidarity with marginalized communities, particularly the Palestinian people. Despite the challenges posed by the Trump administration and Columbia University, the message was clear – Palestinians deserve to live, to be honored, and to be supported by the broader community.
Speakers at the event, such as Shaffer and Alwan, emphasized the importance of resistance and resilience in the face of systemic oppression. They highlighted the significance of protests, teach-ins, and community-building events as forms of graduation – not in the traditional sense of receiving a diploma, but in the sense of graduating in strength, in solidarity, and in the courage to speak out against injustice.
The words “Disclose” and “Divest” adorned the regalia of a student at the event, symbolizing key demands made by pro-Palestine protesters at the university. These demands represent a call for transparency and accountability in the university’s investments, particularly in relation to companies complicit in human rights violations.
As we reflect on the message conveyed at this event, it is clear that there is still much work to be done in the fight for justice and equality. It is a reminder that even in moments of despair, there is always room for hope and resistance. By coming together in solidarity, by amplifying marginalized voices, and by challenging oppressive systems, we can work towards a more just and equitable world for all. The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, influencing the way we communicate, interact, and consume information. While social media platforms have revolutionized the way we connect with others and share our thoughts and experiences, there is a growing concern about the impact of social media on mental health.
One of the main concerns surrounding social media use is its potential to exacerbate feelings of loneliness and isolation. Studies have shown that excessive use of social media can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, as individuals compare themselves to others and their seemingly perfect lives showcased on social media. This constant comparison can contribute to anxiety and depression, as individuals feel they are not measuring up to the unrealistic standards set by social media influencers.
Moreover, social media has been linked to increased rates of cyberbullying, as individuals hide behind the anonymity of the internet to harass and intimidate others. Cyberbullying can have devastating effects on mental health, leading to feelings of shame, embarrassment, and even thoughts of self-harm. The constant exposure to negative comments and hurtful messages can take a toll on one’s mental well-being, leading to heightened levels of stress and anxiety.
Another concerning aspect of social media is its addictive nature, with individuals spending hours scrolling through their feeds and engaging with content. This constant need for validation and approval from others can lead to a cycle of compulsive behavior, as individuals seek out likes, comments, and shares to boost their self-esteem. This addiction to social media can result in a neglect of real-life relationships and activities, further isolating individuals and impacting their mental health.
Despite these negative effects, social media also has the potential to be a positive force for mental health. It can provide a platform for individuals to connect with others who share similar experiences and struggles, fostering a sense of community and support. Social media can also be a valuable tool for raising awareness about mental health issues and providing resources for those in need of help.
In conclusion, while social media has the power to connect us and bring us closer together, it also has the potential to negatively impact our mental health. It is important for individuals to be mindful of their social media use and its effects on their well-being. By setting boundaries, taking breaks, and seeking support when needed, we can harness the positive aspects of social media while mitigating its negative impact on mental health. The world of technology is constantly evolving, and one of the most exciting developments in recent years has been the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). AI is a branch of computer science that aims to create machines that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as speech recognition, decision-making, and problem-solving.
One of the most well-known applications of AI is in the field of machine learning, which involves training machines to learn from data and make decisions based on that data. Machine learning algorithms can be used to analyze large amounts of data and identify patterns and trends that would be difficult or impossible for humans to see.
In recent years, AI has made significant strides in a number of areas, including healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. In healthcare, AI is being used to analyze medical images and diagnose diseases, while in finance, AI is being used to detect fraud and make investment decisions. In manufacturing, AI is being used to optimize production processes and improve quality control.
However, the rise of AI has also raised concerns about the impact it will have on the job market. Some experts predict that AI will lead to widespread job loss, as machines take over tasks that were previously performed by humans. Others argue that while AI will certainly change the nature of work, it will also create new opportunities for employment in areas such as AI development and data analysis.
Despite these concerns, the potential benefits of AI are vast. AI has the potential to revolutionize industries, improve efficiency, and enhance our quality of life. With the right regulations and policies in place, AI has the potential to create a more equitable and prosperous society for all.
As AI continues to advance, it is crucial that we consider the ethical implications of its use. Issues such as bias in AI algorithms, data privacy, and the impact of AI on social inequality must be carefully considered and addressed.
In conclusion, the rise of AI is an exciting development with the potential to transform our world in ways we can only begin to imagine. While there are challenges and risks associated with AI, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. By embracing AI and working together to address its challenges, we can harness its potential to create a brighter future for all.
