The resistance has spread to the fighting Irish of the University of Notre Dame. Vice President Mike Pence, who is also the former Governor of Indiana, gave the commencement speech at this year’s Notre Dame graduation ceremony, but dozens of students and their family members walked out in protest.
This demonstration follows students and FAMU booing and turning their backs on education secretary Betty Devos, who attempted to give a graduation speech as well. It is an understatement to refer to the Trump administration as one of the most polarizing political houses in history, so it is not surprising that students are choosing to exercise their rights to demonstrate.
During the speech, Pence did not mention the walkout, but did offer these comments.
“This university (Notre Dame) is a vanguard of the freedom of expression and the free exchange of ideas at a time, sadly, when free speech and civility are waning on campuses across America,”
The reaction to Pence’s invitation to speak at Notre Dame is actually a counterpoint to Pence’s assertions about speech on campus, as their peaceful protest demonstrates that Notre Dame students can exercise their constitutional right to protest in a civil manner.
Flip the page for video of the walk out.