In a letter addressed to Columbia University President Minouche Shafik, Representative Anthony D'Esposito of New York's Fourth Congressional District expressed his disappointment over the cancellation of the university's main commencement ceremony. D'Esposito requested a list of graduating students from his district and pledged to work with community leaders and government partners to organize an alternative graduation ceremony for these students.

D'Esposito described the cancellation of the commencement ceremony as "appalling," emphasizing the significance of this milestone in the lives of graduating students. He noted that many of these students had already missed out on their high school graduation ceremonies in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Expressing frustration, the letter attributed the cancellation of the event to what was perceived as a failure of leadership at Columbia University. It accused the university of being unable to maintain order on campus, ensure student safety, and address the recent anti-Israel protests that had disrupted the campus environment.

Columbia University had announced earlier this week that its university-wide commencement ceremony would no longer be taking place due to the disruptions caused by the ongoing protests. Instead, smaller, school-based graduation ceremonies would be held at a sports complex located approximately 5 miles away from the main campus.

The protests had initially started at Columbia University three weeks ago and quickly spread to other college campuses across the country. According to estimates, over 2,500 people have been arrested in relation to these demonstrations.

University officials acknowledged the difficulties faced by the community in recent weeks and made the decision to cancel the main commencement ceremony after consulting with students. President Shafik had previously taken steps to address the escalating situation by involving the New York City Police Department and authorizing arrests on campus.

However, as anti-Israel demonstrations intensified, Shafik opted to keep police off the university's private property. She engaged in eight days of dialogue with protest representatives, considering proposals on divestment, free speech, and initiatives in Gaza and the West Bank.

Acknowledging the need for healing and calm, Shafik expressed hope for completing academic work and honoring the achievements of the students at the upcoming smaller graduation ceremonies. She also stressed the importance of continuing a dialogue on the issues that had been raised.

Representative D'Esposito's letter reflected the frustration of students and their families who have been denied the traditional university commencement ceremony experience. The representative's offer to organize an alternate graduation ceremony highlights his determination to ensure that students from his district are duly recognized for their achievements.

As the situation at Columbia University continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the university administration will respond to the demand for a separate graduation event for these students.