Jun 19, 2024, 8:09 PM
Jun 19, 2024, 2:31 PM

Pro-Palestine protesters disrupt Sir Michael Palin's honorary degree ceremony at Oxford amid Gaza encampment

Provocative
Highlights
  • Pro-Palestine activists disrupted the traditional procession at Oxford University during Sir Michael Palin's honorary degree ceremony.
  • The protesters targeted Palin and another recipient over alleged business links to Israel.
  • The event highlighted tensions surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict and free speech on university campuses.
Story

Pro-Palestine protesters targeted an awards ceremony at the University of Oxford honoring notable figures, including Sir Michael Palin, Warren East, and Sir Demis Hassabis, accusing them of being complicit in Gaza genocide due to their connections to companies with dealings in Israel. The ceremony proceeded without disruption, with six figures awarded honorary degrees. The Oxford Encaenia, a traditional ceremony, was affected by a nearby protest, demanding the university disclose and divest any financial interests in Israel. Sir Michael Palin, known for his comedy career, received an honorary degree alongside other distinguished individuals. The event recognized successful individuals in various fields and commemorated benefactors. Sir Michael Palin, Anoushka Shankar, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Warren East, Sir Demis Hassabis, and Prof Salim Yusuf were among the recipients. Palin, reflecting on life after the death of his wife, continues his travel adventures and remains grateful for the success of Monty Python.

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