In Lexington, Kentucky, a significant event took place following the University of Kentucky’s decision to cancel celebrations recognizing graduates from minority backgrounds. Despite federal measures under President Donald Trump aimed at eliminating diversity initiatives on college campuses, these students didn’t let that stop their commemoration. They took matters into their own hands and organized an alternative celebration out on their own.
Amidst the challenges they faced, several dozen students adorned in graduation attire gathered at an off-campus event where their families and friends cheered them on. They were commended for their academic achievements and gifted with special regalia such as stoles and cords, which they can display at the forthcoming university-wide commencement.
Words of encouragement flowed from the stage, notably steering clear of recent controversies surrounding the Republican efforts at federal and state levels to curb diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. “You are charged with standing on our shoulders and doing bigger and better things,” stated Christian Adair, the Lyric Theatre’s executive director, a pivotal location for Lexington’s Black community and site of the celebration.
The event named “Senior Salute” was organized in response to the university’s withdrawal of support for identity-based ceremonies. The university cited “federal and state policy changes and directives” as reasons for pulling such celebrations. This decision sparked alumni from the historically Black fraternity Alpha Phi Alpha to spearhead the independent event in place of school-organized ceremonies.
Kristopher Washington, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha and a graduating student, played a crucial role in organizing the event. “The message that I wanted to send is that if you truly desire something, then take the initiative to make it happen yourself,” Washington expressed, reflecting on the situation. He anticipated the university’s decision but hoped for more consideration for student traditions.
The ceremony was predominantly attended by Black students and their families, though it was marketed as inclusive, welcoming LGBTQ+ students and first-generation college graduates as well. Ushers like David Wirtschafter, a Lexington rabbi, showed their support for the students, lauding their determination not to let go of a significant celebration.
In a climate of growing strain from Trump’s administration on universities to align with its political directives, several institutions have faced repercussions, including the freezing of grant funds for not counteracting antisemitism to the administration’s satisfaction. Trump’s directive to dismantle programs treating students variably by race led to new scrutiny of such events nationwide, impacting universities like the University of Kentucky.
The recent Kentucky legislation, dominated by Republicans, dismantled diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in public universities. In a video address defending the university’s stance, President Eli Capilouto conveyed the decision as one of many challenging choices due to the scrutiny and pressure faced. These university-wide measures seek compliance with stated law, perceived as necessary to safeguard the institution and its beneficiaries.
Critics of the university’s decision stress the void left by the absence of celebrations recognizing LGBTQ+, Black, and first-generation graduates, which have fostered community and highlighted the achievements of students from historically marginalized sectors. Families, including Brandy Robinson, expressed their dismay at the change, calling the decision cowardly.
For students like Pierre PetitFrere, Alpha Phi Alpha’s president, these celebrations offer more than recognition — they serve as a lasting reminder of perseverance and achievement amidst global challenges. The sentiment was echoed in the communal spirit at the event, where the university’s actions were seen as an unwilling submission to anti-Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion pulses. Jay Blanton, a university spokesperson, acknowledged the significance these celebrations hold for students, although expressing limitations on university-sponsored events.
Graduating senior Marshae Dorsey shared her disappointment, viewing the university’s decision as a concession to political pressure, emphasizing the importance and harmlessness of such celebrations — an echo of student sentiments seeking acknowledgment amidst institutional scrutiny.