As graduation season kicks off, a wave of protests is sweeping through Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) over the selection of commencement speakers. The latest to join this movement is Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM), where students are actively protesting the choice of alumnus Rep. Rich McCormick (R-GA) as their graduation speaker.
Students Voice Concerns Over Speaker Selection
The decision to have Rep. McCormick, a graduate of MSM, address the Class of 2026 has sparked significant backlash. Students have launched a petition, arguing that his voting record and stated views clash with the school’s core mission of improving well-being and increasing diversity in medicine, a field where Black professionals are notably underrepresented.
“As future physicians, we realize that we’re going to interact with diverse patients who have different perspectives, but we feel that someone who’s championing us on our graduation day and giving us a charge to move forward with the future should also uphold our values and the morals that we uphold,” explained Kiara Huff, an MSM student, to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. On Wednesday, May 6, students were seen on campus holding signs, including one that read “DEI Saves Lives,” urging the school to reconsider its invitation.
McCormick Responds to Protest
Despite the student outcry, Rep. McCormick remains slated to speak and has stated he respects the differing opinions. He stands by his “record of public service and support for policies that improve Americans’ well-being.” McCormick, who is the first graduate of MSM to be elected to Congress, expressed his disappointment with the protest, calling it “hurtful” given his past involvement with the school, including serving as student body president.
Students, however, feel their concerns are being ignored. Their petition highlights McCormick’s endorsement of Donald Trump and his support for legislation that opposes gender-affirming care and restricts immigration. A key point of contention is his backing of a bill that could cap student loans, potentially making medical school less accessible for low-income students who rely on them.
Echoes of Wider HBCU Protests
The situation at Morehouse School of Medicine mirrors similar controversies at other HBCUs. At South Carolina State University, student backlash led to the cancellation of Lt. Governor Pamela Evette’s commencement speech, with new speakers later announced. These protests underscore a growing sentiment among HBCU students to ensure their commencement speakers align with their values and the institutions’ missions.
The petition against McCormick has garnered over 1,100 signatures, with alumni also expressing dismay. One alum lamented, “His values, platform and leadership as a congressman stand in direct opposition to the mission of MSM.” The sentiment reflects a desire for commencement speakers who inspire and embody the principles the graduates are expected to uphold.
What do you think about the student protests at Morehouse School of Medicine? Should commencement speakers align with student values? Share your thoughts in the comments below!