In a world where freedom of speech and expression is often suppressed, one voice stood out, determined to make a difference. Randa Wahbe, a Harvard graduate, had a powerful message to share with the world. However, her speech was deemed too controversial and was silenced by the university. But, thanks to The Intercept, her powerful words have finally been published for the world to read and watch.
During her speech at the Harvard commencement ceremony, Wahbe shared her struggles as a Palestinian-American growing up in the United States. She spoke about the constant suppression and erasure of Palestine in the media and in the education system. She also talked about the ongoing genocide and oppression faced by the Palestinian people.
“I wanted to center Palestine, to make sure that their struggles are not forgotten and their voices are heard,” Wahbe told The Intercept. “But unfortunately, even in an institution like Harvard, mentioning Palestine is deemed too controversial.”
Her speech was met with thunderous applause and a standing ovation from the audience. However, the university decided to cut her speech from the official recording and transcript, claiming it violated their rules against “political statements.”
But, as Wahbe rightly pointed out, “Palestine is not a political statement, it is a humanitarian crisis.” And it is high time that the world recognizes and acknowledges this crisis.
For decades, the Palestinian people have been living under occupation and facing constant violence and discrimination from the Israeli government. The ongoing conflict has led to the displacement of thousands of Palestinians from their homes and the loss of countless lives.
Yet, the world remains silent and turns a blind eye to their plight. And even when someone like Wahbe tries to raise their voice, they are silenced and suppressed. However, with the publication of her speech, it is clear that her powerful words cannot be silenced any longer.
In her speech, Wahbe also highlighted the importance of using education as a tool for social justice and activism. She emphasized the role of universities in promoting critical thinking and challenging the status quo. “We must use our privilege and education to stand up for what is right and to speak out against injustices,” she said.
Her message is a reminder to all of us that we have a responsibility to use our voices and platforms to bring attention to the issues that matter. And we must also hold institutions accountable when they try to silence us.
The decision to censor Wahbe’s speech is not only a violation of her freedom of speech but also a disservice to the students and faculty at Harvard. Universities are meant to be a space for open dialogue and critical thinking, and by suppressing a speech that sheds light on a humanitarian crisis, Harvard has failed in fulfilling this purpose.
However, The Intercept’s decision to publish Wahbe’s speech has given her words a much-needed platform and has sparked a much-needed conversation about the suppression of Palestinian voices. It is a reminder that journalism plays a crucial role in bringing attention to important issues and standing up against censorship.
Wahbe’s speech is a call to action for all of us to educate ourselves about the Palestinian struggle and to be vocal about it. We must not let fear or intimidation silence us when it comes to standing up for what is right. As she said in her speech, “We must be unapologetic in our pursuit of justice and equality for all.”
In conclusion, Randa Wahbe’s powerful words have finally been heard and shared with the world, thanks to The Intercept. Her speech serves as a reminder that we must continue to fight against censorship and speak out against injustices. And most importantly, we must center Palestine and give a voice to those who have been silenced for far too long. It is time for the world to listen and take action.
