Comedian and television host Conan O'Brien addressed Harvard University graduates at their commencement on Thursday, as the institution faces heightened scrutiny from the Trump administration and a picket by striking graduate students.
The Trump administration filed a lawsuit against Harvard in March, alleging the university failed to adequately address antisemitism on campus. This followed a separate legal case where a judge ruled in Harvard's favour, compelling the administration to reverse billions of dollars in funding cuts. The administration had previously slashed over $2.6 billion in Harvard's research funding, terminated federal contracts, and attempted to prevent the university from hosting international students. Harvard argued it was being unlawfully penalised for not aligning with the administration's perspectives.
Harvard commencements have become increasingly political in recent years. Last year, students applauded speakers who championed diversity and advocated for truth amid attacks by the Trump administration. The year prior, graduates staged a walkout, chanting 'Free, free Palestine' amid campus protests over the war in Gaza, while others chanted 'Let them walk' after the university announced some students involved in a protest encampment would not receive their diplomas with their peers.
This year, more than 4,000 striking graduate student workers declared their intention to picket the commencement, citing a lack of progress in contract negotiations. They are demanding improved pay, an independent process for handling harassment and discrimination complaints, and contractual protections for noncitizen and disabled employees.
At Thursday's ceremony, Harvard granted honorary degrees to five distinguished recipients, including O'Brien.
