While all students are missing out on various experiences and opportunities, the seniors, the Class of 2020, are facing the potential reality that many college graduates have already faced; the possibility of not having a graduation ceremony. 

The student who is first in their family to graduate high school; the student who faced adversity, fell behind, and picked themselves back up; the student who never thought they would make it to the ceremony stage; the student whose motivation for success is their siblings; the student who dedicates their diploma to a loved one they lost; the student who has envisioned celebrating with their friends and peers at a ceremony; the student who has worked hard for 12 years and deserves to be recognized; these students, all students, deserve to recognized. 

As city public schools are currently closed and it’s unknown when and if they will re-open this year, it will be hard for schools to put on a ceremony or even plan one for a summer date. 

The “Canyon of Heroes” has celebrated returning veterans, astronauts, heads of state, and sports champions with ticker tape parades in since 1886. Millions of people have watched and cheered on their heroes and champions ride on floats while paper and confetti swirled around. When this pandemic ends and it is safe to do so, let’s celebrate the New York City Class of 2020 as they travel up Broadway in their hard earned caps and gowns, waving their diplomas!