Texas Southern University canceled a scheduled commencement appearence by state Sen. John Cornyn amid student backlash.
May 13 (UPI) — Texas Southern University canceled a scheduled commencement appearence by state Sen. John Cornyn amid student backlash.
The historically black university announced Friday that Cornyn, a Republican, would not speak at the commencement ceremony on Saturday but would be invited back to the university for another appearance in the future.
« We asked Senator Cornyn to instead visit with our students again at a future date in order to keep focus on graduates and their families, » the university said in a statement.
A Change.org petition to cancel Cornyn’s appearance at the commencement ceremony received 863 signatures.
The petition cited the senator’s support of « discriminatory policies and politicians » such as voting in favor of voter ID laws, constitutional ban of same-sex marriage and approving the appointment of U. S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions and U. S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos.
« This is our graduation, » the petition stated. « We have the right to decide if we want to refuse to sit and listen to the words of a politician who chooses to use his political power in ways that continually harm, marginalized and oppressed people. »
The university did not address the concerns mentioned in the petition, but told the Texas Tribune the change was made to « ensure that our students and families enjoyed their special day. »
« Commencement exercises are special moments for our students, their families and the entire university, » the university’s statement said. « Every consideration is made to ensure that our student’s graduation day is a celebratory occasion and one they will remember positively for years to come. »
Two Democratic members of Congress from Houston, U. S. Reps. Al Green and Sheila Jackson Lee, remained a part of the program and were set to speak as scheduled.
Cornyn’s representative said the senator respected the university’s decision and awaits the opportunity to return.
« Senator Cornyn was honored to be invited to address TSU’s graduates, but he respects the Administration’s decision and looks forward to continuing to engage with the University in the future, » the statement said.
