During the May graduation ceremony at New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), a student wearing a black-and-white scarf shouted “Free Palestine” as he crossed the stage to receive his diploma. This incident, although occurring in May, gained significant attention recently following reports that the student was deported from the UAE.
This event highlights the UAE’s delicate balancing act between its recognition of Israel and the ongoing war in Gaza. While the UAE provides aid to Palestinians, it has not experienced the mass protests seen in other Arab countries. Students at NYUAD report restrictions on discussing the war in academic and cultural settings, with those wearing keffiyehs barred from events. One student, in a report by The Associated Press, pointed out the disparity between local laws and Western ideals of free speech. NYUAD affirmed its academic autonomy but acknowledged compliance with local laws, including protocols for graduation.
Prior to the ceremony, students were informed that displaying the Palestinian flag or wearing cultural attire, including scarves, was prohibited on campus. Multiple students, fearing reprisals, described similar constraints leading up to graduation, affecting planned activities like fundraisers and vigils for Gaza victims. The university’s directive banning cultural attire extended to all aspects of the commencement, reinforced by an email sent to students beforehand.
The student who defied this order and shouted “Free Palestine” was reportedly detained and deported, prompting criticism from the American Association of University Professors for stifling academic freedom. Allegations surfaced that NYUAD failed to protect students and staff from detention and deportation, particularly those from non-Western backgrounds under surveillance. Despite these controversies, the UAE maintains robust diplomatic ties with Israel, hosting its consulate and embassy and facilitating daily flights to Tel Aviv.
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