What should have been a celebratory moment turned into a political firestorm at New York University this week.
During NYU’s Gallatin School commencement, a student speaker veered off script and delivered a bold message about the war in Gaza—sparking applause from some, outrage from others, and ultimately, disciplinary action from the university.
Logan Rozos Criticizes Israel and the U.S. During Graduation Speech
Logan Rozos, a 24-year-old actor and graduating senior, used his time at the podium to denounce what he called a “genocide” happening in Gaza. Addressing the audience, Rozos began:
“The only thing that is appropriate to say in this time, and to a group this large, is a recognition of the atrocities currently happening in Palestine.”
His words drew loud applause. Rozos went on to condemn the U.S. for its role in the conflict, accusing the country of political and military support for Israel’s actions.
“The genocide currently occurring is supported politically and militarily by the United States, is paid for by our tax dollars, and has been live-streamed to our phones for the past 18 months… I condemn this genocide and complicity in this genocide.”
NYU Responds Swiftly and Publicly
Rozos’ speech quickly spread online, dividing opinion across the political spectrum.
While some praised him for taking a stand, critics demanded consequences—and NYU listened.
The university later confirmed it would withhold Rozos’ diploma while pursuing disciplinary action.
In a statement, NYU spokesperson John Beckman said:
“He lied about the speech he was going to deliver and violated the commitment he made to comply with our rules… NYU strongly denounces the choice to misuse his role as student speaker to express his personal and one-sided political views.”
The school apologized to attendees and emphasized that Rozos had abused the platform given to him.
Backlash Grows from Lawmakers and Advocacy Groups
Rozos’ remarks didn’t just stir up drama on campus—they caught the attention of national organizations and lawmakers as well.
The Anti-Defamation League of New York and New Jersey condemned the speech, calling it “divisive and false.”
Florida Democratic Rep. Jared Moskowitz also spoke out against Rozos during a CNN segment, saying:
“He lied to the university. He lied to everyone listening.
There’s no genocide going on in Israel. There is a war… That was a stupid, selfish thing, ruined the ceremony for a lot of families.”
Supporters Defend Rozos and Call for NYU to Release His Diploma
Despite the backlash, Rozos has received vocal support from advocacy groups and fellow students. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) praised him for his courage and urged NYU to drop its disciplinary action.
Afaf Nasher, executive director of CAIR-NY, said:
“We commend Logan for using this opportunity to demand an end to the bloodshed in Gaza.
In a world where the word ‘Palestine’ has become wrongfully criminalized, it is individuals like Logan who keep Palestine in our consciousness.”
Supporters argue that Rozos earned his diploma and should not be punished for expressing his political views—especially when many attendees welcomed his message with applause.
A Deeper Divide on Campus and Beyond
Rozos, who was chosen by classmates to speak at the ceremony, describes himself as “an actor, artist and gay Black trans man.”
His identity and activism have become part of a broader conversation about free speech, protest, and how universities handle politically sensitive topics.
This incident comes as universities across the U.S. face growing pressure—from both the public and government officials—to take a hard stance on pro-Palestinian activism.
In this climate, Rozos’ speech has become more than just a graduation moment—it’s become part of a much bigger story about where the line is drawn between personal expression and institutional policy.