education • May. 6, 2026

University of Michigan Professor Faces Backlash Over Speech Supporting Pro-Palestinian Students

A University of Michigan professor is facing criticism and public backlash after delivering a speech praising pro-Palestinian student activists, sparking renewed debate over free speech, campus activism, political expression, and tensions surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict in higher education institutions.

University of Michigan has issued a formal apology after a professor praised pro-Palestinian student protesters during a commencement speech over the weekend, triggering a sharp political and public backlash. During the universitywide graduation ceremony on Saturday, Derek R. Peterson, a professor of East African history and outgoing chair of the faculty senate, spoke about students who had protested against the war in Gaza over the past two years.

He said the demonstrations had helped bring attention to what he described as the injustice and human suffering caused by the conflict. Peterson’s comments quickly spread online and drew criticism from several Jewish organizations and pro-Israel groups, which argued that anti-Israel protests on campus had created an uncomfortable and hostile atmosphere for some Jewish students. The controversy escalated within hours as political leaders and donors began reacting publicly to the speech.

University President Domenico Grasso later released a statement apologizing for the remarks, saying they were inappropriate and did not reflect the institution’s official position. He added that the comments differed from the version of the speech that had been submitted before the ceremony and expressed regret for the distress caused during an event meant to celebrate graduates and their families. Despite the apology, criticism of the university continued.

Republican lawmakers, including Florida Senator Rick Scott, called for the university’s federal funding to be reconsidered. Investor Adam Milstein also urged Jewish supporters to stop donating to the school. A Republican member of the university’s Board of Regents suggested that disciplinary action against Peterson could be possible.

Peterson defended his remarks and rejected the idea that graduation speeches should avoid political topics. In a public statement, he said universities should encourage students to confront difficult global issues with critical thinking, research and compassion rather than avoid controversial subjects. The professor also accused university officials of temporarily removing the speech from the internet.

A spokesperson later said the video had only been taken down because of a music copyright issue and was later restored online. Academic organizations and labor groups soon came to Peterson’s defense. In a joint letter published Tuesday, groups including the American Association of University Professors and the American Federation of Teachers criticized the university administration for apologizing instead of defending faculty speech.

They argued that universities have a responsibility to protect academic freedom, especially during periods of political pressure. The controversy comes as tensions surrounding the war in Gaza continue to affect university campuses across the United States. Over the past two years, many colleges have seen protests, student encampments and graduation disruptions linked to the conflict.

Some students have also faced disciplinary action for raising pro-Palestinian issues during commencement ceremonies..