Attending the University of Michigan's 2024 graduation ceremony at the iconic Big House was a momentous occasion. The atmosphere was electric, filled with the excitement and pride of thousands of students and their families. However, an organized protest by a small group of students has become a point of contention, misrepresented by mainstream media, notably The Guardian. This article aims to set the record straight, providing an accurate account of what truly transpired and reflecting on the broader implications of media misreporting.
The Protest: Peaceful and Brief
Amid the sea of caps and gowns, a group of approximately 50 students out of the 8,000 in attendance staged a peaceful "Free Palestine" protest. Their demonstration lasted for about ten minutes, during which they expressed their views without resorting to violence or disruption. The speakers allowed the protesters to voice their concerns before courteously moving them to the back of the ceremony to ensure the proceedings could continue smoothly. (See blue box)

The Reaction: Orderly and Respectful
Contrary to reports by The Guardian, the majority of the students were not supportive of the protest. Many were visibly upset, urging the protesters to sit down and allow the ceremony to proceed. Despite the emotional responses, all students remained quiet and orderly. The graduation continued without any major disruptions, and contrary to what was reported, no students left the ceremony.
The Sky Banner: A Different Message
Adding to the misreporting, The Guardian claimed there was a plane flying a banner supporting the protest. In reality, the only banner visible in the sky read, "We stand with Israel." This stark contrast in reporting highlights a recurring issue with mainstream media—propagating a narrative that does not always align with the facts.

The Media's Role: Spreading 'Fake News'
The Guardian's article is a glaring example of how the mainstream media can spread misinformation. By misrepresenting the events of the graduation ceremony, they contribute to the growing mistrust in media sources. As a writer and pseudo-journalist, it is disheartening to see the shift from objective reporting to narrative-driven journalism. The focus has shifted from delivering the truth to garnering likes and views, often at the expense of accuracy.
Brad Meltzer's Inspiring Speech
Amidst the controversy, Brad Meltzer's commencement speech stood out as a beacon of inspiration and relevance. Using the analogy of magic, Meltzer eloquently described the four parts of all magic tricks: making something appear, making something disappear, transporting an object, and transforming an object. His speech resonated deeply with the graduates, reminding them of their potential to create, innovate, and transform their world.
The Right to Protest: A Personal Reflection
As someone of Jewish descent, I do not support the cause of the protesters. However, as an American, I firmly believe in their right to peacefully protest. It is a fundamental aspect of our democracy. Yet, I cannot help but feel for these graduates who have already endured significant hardships. This cohort missed out on their prom and high school graduation due to the pandemic. Their first year at the University of Michigan was marred by the constraints of Covid-19. Now, as they stand on the brink of a new chapter, their moment of celebration was overshadowed by the protest.

The Graduates' Resilience
Despite these challenges, the graduates demonstrated remarkable resilience. They maintained their composure and continued to celebrate their achievements. Their strength and perseverance in the face of adversity are commendable. It is a testament to their character and the education they received at the University of Michigan.
The Bigger Picture: The State of Journalism
The events at the University of Michigan's graduation are a microcosm of a larger issue within journalism today. There is a growing trend towards sensationalism and bias. Journalists are increasingly prioritizing stories that will attract attention over those that present an unbiased account of events. This shift is detrimental to the public's trust in the media.
Moving Forward: A Call for Responsible Journalism
It is imperative for journalists to return to the principles of unbiased reporting. The role of the media is to inform the public, not to shape narratives based on personal or political biases. By doing so, they can help restore the public's trust and ensure that the truth prevails.
Honoring the Graduates
The University of Michigan's 2024 graduation ceremony should be remembered for the achievements of its graduates, not for a misreported protest. These young men and women have shown resilience and determination in the face of unprecedented challenges. As they move forward into the next chapter of their lives, they carry with them the skills and knowledge to make a difference in the world. Let us honor their accomplishments and ensure that their story is told accurately and fairly.
It is essential to recognize the importance of accurate reporting. The mainstream media must strive to present the truth, free from bias and sensationalism. Only then can we hope to foster a well-informed and just society.
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