On May 15, 2025, undergraduate student Logan Rozos delivered a graduation speech at NYU in which he condemned the genocide in Gaza. Rozos stated: "As I search my heart today in addressing you all…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." He further remarked that "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.”

In response, NYU has publicly accused Rozos of "lying" about what he had planned to say, claimed he "stole the moment," and is withholding his earned degree while pursuing disciplinary action against him. This occurred amid a broader crackdown on pro-Palestinian advocacy at elite institutions across the country.

The targeting of Rozos—for a brief expression of political conscience during his graduation speech—represents a direct assault on First Amendment rights and sets a dangerous precedent in the systematic silencing of pro-Palestinian voices and activism.

We demand:

• The immediate and unconditional reinstatement of Logan Rozos's diploma

• A halt to all disciplinary proceedings against him related to his graduation speech

• A public apology from NYU for mischaracterizing his speech and implementing punitive measures

• Affirmation of NYU's commitment to protecting political expression, particularly regarding Palestinian rights

When academic institutions can withhold degrees and publicly denigrate students for their political advocacy, we witness the effective nullification of free speech protections, particularly for those already marginalized. This creates a chilling effect where students must choose between their moral conscience and their academic future.

We must stand together against the criminalization of solidarity with Palestinians and the broader erosion of constitutional rights that threatens the foundation of both academic freedom and democratic society.