A group of Duke University students walked out of graduation on Sunday, May 12, as comedian Jerry Seinfeld received an honorary degree and prepared to deliver a speech. Approximately 30 students stood up from their seats — some carrying Palestinian flags — and left the commencement ceremony.
The protesting students chanted “Free Palestine,” while other graduates responded with a mix of boos and cheers, chanting “Jerry” in support of the guest speaker. The dissenting students held an alternative makeshift graduation elsewhere on the North Carolina campus.
Seinfeld, who has two children attending Duke, has been vocal about his support for Israel since a Hamas terror attack in October.
Seinfeld posted an “I Stand With Israel” image on his Instagram account two days after Hamas’ attacks. He visited Israel in December where he met with freed hostages and families of those still being held captive.
In his speech, he addressed the concept of privilege, encouraging students not to shy away from utilizing their Duke education.
“Privilege is a word that has taken quite a beating lately,” Seinfeld said. “Privilege today seems to be the worst thing you can have. I would like to take a moment to defend it. Again, a lot of you are thinking, I can’t believe they invited this guy. Too late. I say, use your privilege. I grew up a Jewish boy from New York. That is a privilege, if you want to be a comedian.”
Seinfeld has not yet commented on the walkout.