Harvard's commencement features Abraham Verghese criticizing the Trump administration

In a recent commencement speech at Harvard University, Stanford University professor and novelist Abraham Verghese addressed the Class of 2025, focusing on the challenges faced by immigrants and society under the Trump administration. Verghese noted the outrage expressed by students regarding the administration's policies, emphasizing the importance of moral clarity and compassion in times of pressure. He also reflected on his journey as an immigrant from Ethiopia and highlighted the fear that many legal immigrants experience in the current political climate. Verghese's remarks were part of a broader discussion on Harvard's history of inviting predominantly left-leaning speakers to its commencement ceremonies. The speech occurred against the backdrop of increased scrutiny regarding Harvard's lack of ideological diversity among its speakers, particularly in the context of criticism from conservatives about the university's direction. In his address, Verghese praised Harvard's defiance against the Trump administration, which has been critical of the university's policies, including recent threats to revoke its certification for admitting international students. The speech resonated with students who appreciated Verghese's call to uphold the university's values and address the pressing issues of democracy. Verghese is recognized for his literary contributions and his background as a medical doctor, bringing a unique perspective to the graduation ceremony. His address was also a tribute to the sacrifices made by graduates and their families, urging them to honor those sacrifices by making meaningful choices in their futures. Verghese shared anecdotes from his experiences treating AIDS patients, illustrating the need for compassion and understanding in an increasingly divided world. Drawing from a diverse range of experiences, Verghese's narrative highlighted the essential values of resilience and integrity, urging graduates to carry these principles into their lives. The event also sparked discussions surrounding viewpoint diversity at Harvard, with university leadership acknowledging the criticism while working to address it. Overall, Verghese's commencement speech not only inspired graduates but also reignited discussions about the broader implications of political discourse at prestigious institutions like Harvard University.