Affinity Graduations: Still Celebrating Black Excellence

By Darius Spearman (africanelements)

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Identity Celebrations Under Scrutiny

Graduation season has always been a time of joy and reflection for college students. For Black students and those from other marginalized groups, affinity graduations offer a cherished space. These intimate ceremonies provide a moment to celebrate shared journeys and perseverance. They highlight an institution’s commitment to equal educational opportunities for all students (CivilRights.org).

However, recent federal and state actions are challenging these important traditions. Multiple colleges and universities have canceled or halted university-sponsored affinity or identity-based celebrations. This includes institutions such as Maricopa Community Colleges in Arizona, Harvard University, the University of Kentucky, and various public universities across Utah (Washington Times). These programs—which previously honored Black, LGBTQ+, Native American, and first-generation students—had existed for decades (Inside Higher Ed).

The Push Against DEI

The cancellations stem from President Trump’s January 2025 executive order, directing federal agencies to close Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) offices (Washington Times). Additionally, new state laws in Republican-led states like Utah and Kentucky are banning DEI spending (SAN.COM). These actions have put pressure on higher education institutions.

A memo from the Trump administration’s Education Department explained the administration’s view. It instructed schools to remove programs with racial preferences, arguing that affinity graduations and similar initiatives create “segregation by race at graduation ceremonies” (SAN.COM). This interpretation guides many of the recent changes. It signals a significant shift in federal policy aimed at reshaping diversity initiatives in colleges and universities.

Colleges Impacted by Affinity Graduation Cancellations

Students Adapt and Continue Traditions

Despite these institutional changes, the spirit of celebration for Black students and other diverse groups remains strong. Student groups and advocacy organizations have quickly responded. They organize off-campus or independent celebrations to maintain these cherished traditions. These actions underscore the deep importance of these gatherings to the graduating community.

In Utah, for instance, Project Rainbow Utah assisted LGBTQ+ students. They helped students from Salt Lake Community College, the University of Utah, and Weber State University host “lavender graduations” in off-campus locations after their on-campus events were canceled (Washington Times). Similarly, in Kentucky, students from the University of Louisville and Bellarmine University organized a Black graduation celebration at a local church (Birmingham Times). Students at Morehead State University also held an LGBTQ+ celebration off campus (Washington Times).

The Role of Student Groups

Student organizations, fraternities, and sororities have stepped up heroically to fill the void created by the cancellations. Their efforts emphasize the continued importance of celebrating the achievements of historically underrepresented groups (Birmingham Times). These groups understand that affinity graduations are more than just ceremonies. They are vital spaces for connection, affirmation, and communal recognition of immense accomplishment.

Universities have clarified that in the past, these affinity ceremonies were held outside official commencement events and were optional for students. Now, they openly encourage student organizations to host such events independently (Inside Higher Ed). This encourages student-led initiatives, even if it means less institutional support.

Reasons For Affinity Graduation Cancellations

Affinity Graduations: A Deeper Meaning

Affinity graduations are ceremonies that celebrate the achievements of students from underrepresented or marginalized communities (CivilRights.org). This includes groups such as Asian American, Black, Latino, Native American, disabled students, and more. These events specifically honor the perseverance and unique educational journey of these students (CivilRights.org). They also remain open to all students, as attendance is never restricted based on identity.

Historically, these ceremonies have been essential for communities that have faced barriers to higher education (CivilRights.org). They provide a much-needed space for students to connect with peers who share similar experiences. These events foster community and provide a platform for students from historically underrepresented groups to affirm their achievements (Birmingham Times).

Understanding DEI Initiatives

DEI, or Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, refers to a set of initiatives designed to create more inclusive environments in higher education. These programs aim to promote diversity, ensure equitable opportunities, and foster a culture of inclusion within academic settings (CivilRights.org). The goal is to remove barriers to education based on factors such as race, gender, or ability. This helps ensure that all students have equal access to resources and opportunities (CivilRights.org).

Institutions use DEI frameworks to develop programs that support underrepresented groups. Affinity graduations are a prime example of such efforts, as they celebrate the achievements of diverse student populations (CivilRights.org). The current political climate often targets these initiatives. However, supporters argue they are fundamental to creating a truly equitable educational landscape.

The Segregation Debate

A central part of the political debate revolves around claims of “segregation by race.” The Trump administration and Republican lawmakers argue that affinity graduations and DEI programming create unequal opportunities (Washington Times). They suggest these events may even be discriminatory (SAN.COM).

However, advocates and many legal experts counter this view. They argue that affinity graduations are often misconstrued. These events are celebrations of diversity and community within institutions, not exclusive gatherings (CivilRights.org). Unlike historical segregation, which deliberately excluded certain groups, affinity graduations are inclusive and open to all students. They aim to build respect among diverse student bodies and affirm achievements that might otherwise be overlooked (Inside Higher Ed).

Types of Affinity Graduations Impacted

Universities Navigating New Waters

Despite the changes to university-sponsored events, institutions continue to express support for all students within legal and policy constraints. University spokespersons affirm their commitment to celebrating all students’ achievements in official commencement ceremonies (Inside Higher Ed). This stance maintains the overall celebratory tone of graduation.

Schools also acknowledge that student groups are welcome to host their own celebrations. However, a key condition is that these independent events must not use university resources (Inside Higher Ed). This approach shifts the responsibility and financial burden of these celebrations onto student organizations and their supporters. It creates a space for traditions to continue, even if official recognition is withdrawn.

The Continued Fight for Identity

The legal and political debate surrounding these cancellations is ongoing. Advocates and some legal experts stress that while universities cannot officially sponsor such events, no law prevents students from organizing independent celebrations (Washington Times). Federal civil rights laws allow for cultural celebrations, distinct from stricter rules for race-conscious decision-making (CivilRights.org).

Legal battles and federal court decisions certainly influence the enforcement and interpretation of guidance documents. However, colleges have largely acted preemptively, aiming to comply with federal and state directives (Inside Higher Ed). The impact on students, particularly those from historically marginalized backgrounds, is clear. These events offer crucial networking opportunities and mentorship connections that might be lost without independent efforts. Student groups often rely on external funding sources, community support, and sometimes internal allocations not tied to DEI initiatives to sustain these events.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Darius Spearman has been a professor of Black Studies at San Diego City College since 2007. He is the author of several books, including Between The Color Lines: A History of African Americans on the California Frontier Through 1890. You can visit Darius online at africanelements.org.