In a recent email to its students, Brandeis University has decided to “cancel our traditional on-campus ceremonies and Commencement weekend” in light of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Brandeis wants to "reformat" the traditional Commencement activities and has not mentioned a plan to have a graduation ceremony at a later date. We are asking the Brandeis administration to postpone our graduation to a safer time, rather than working to invent a "creative," online solution. The class of 2020 has lost its opportunity to enjoy senior events, say goodbye to professors, attend special ceremonies, and, most importantly, receive closure. By postponing Brandeis' 2020 commencement to a later date, we will ensure that our seniors are properly acknowledged for their work over the past four years. 

We recognize that we are in a serious health crisis and that the safety and health of our community must always remain a priority. However, we ask that Brandeis recognize the efforts of the senior class with an in-person commencement ceremony (among other celebratory events) after experts deem it safe to do so.

This is a moment we have long dreamed of sharing with our classmates and family members. While it is important to give everyone the opportunity to participate virtually in a commencement ceremony, the University must also recognize that students and families have been waiting for this moment for years. Other schools such as Brown University and the University of Pennsylvania have committed to scheduling an in-person commencement when it is safe to do so. Brandeis has only offered an alternative to the May 17th ceremony that will adhere to CDC’s warning against large gatherings.

Please help us fight for a postponed, in-person commencement ceremony by signing this petition. If we've learned anything at Brandeis, it's to speak up. 

Sincerely, 

Brandeis Class of 2020