During the commencement ceremony at Notre Dame over the weekend, Vice President Mike Pence took to the stage, prompting a significant response from the audience. More than 100 students rose from their seats—not to show approval, but to leave in a quiet protest against Pence and his policies.
Traditionally, the newly elected President is invited to deliver the commencement speech at this Catholic university. However, after a petition with over 2,000 signatures from students and faculty urging Rev. John Jenkins, the university president, not to invite Donald Trump, the honor was instead given to Pence, the former Governor of Indiana.
The protest was organized by the student-led group We StaND For, who aimed to express their dissent respectfully. Paul Browne, a spokesperson for Notre Dame, indicated that the protesters had coordinated with campus police and administration, stating, “We’re not concerned. We think they will be respectful in the way they express their differences with the administration.”
In a press release, the student group elaborated on their motives for the walkout, highlighting Pence’s track record of undermining civil rights for the LGBT+ community, his endorsement of Trump’s travel bans, his opposition to sanctuary cities, and his rejection of the Syrian refugee resettlement program. “All of these policies have marginalized our vulnerable sisters and brothers for their religion, skin color, or sexual orientation,” We StaND For noted. Their aim was to demonstrate solidarity with those who feel threatened, while still being respectful to those with opposing views.
Although Pence did not directly address the students who exited early, he critiqued the trend of political correctness on college campuses during his speech. He expressed disappointment over the prevalence of speech codes and “safe zones,” claiming they suppress freedom of speech. Ironically, this comment did not reach the protesting students, who had already left the ceremony.
The right to peaceful protest is a core tenet of the First Amendment, which protects citizens’ rights to assemble and express their views. The students had informed the university of their intentions and executed their protest in a manner that minimized disruption to the graduation proceedings. This act should not be dismissed as mere “political correctness” or as a sign of being “liberal snowflakes.” Instead, it exemplifies active participation in a democratic society.
As the last speaker of the event, Pence’s address marked a significant moment, but those who walked out missed the ceremonial tassel turn that signifies graduation. Regardless, these students exemplified strength and conviction in standing up for their beliefs during their time at Notre Dame.
In summary, the protest against Pence at Notre Dame highlighted the importance of civic engagement among students, demonstrating that standing up for one’s beliefs is a vital aspect of democracy, even when it means missing out on traditional moments like turning the tassel.