USC: Injustice Then and Now

Fifty years ago, my experience at the University of Southern California (USC) was marred by an unsettling encounter with a fellow student. Despite my deep affection for USC, recent events have resurfaced memories of that painful past, prompting reflection on the institution's integrity.

I entered USC's esteemed School of Engineering in January 1975, eager to embark on a new chapter of my life. However, the excitement of orientation week quickly turned sour when I encountered discrimination based on my Muslim Arab North African background. Shockingly, my assigned roommate, proudly identifying as a Zionist, expressed hostility towards me and threatened my safety due to his affiliation with a Zionist organization active on campus.

Feeling bewildered and vulnerable, I sought assistance from the housing administration, only to receive a relocation offer without any formal apology or investigation into the incident. Disheartened by the lack of accountability, I resigned myself to my circumstances, trusting in the university's protection.

Despite this distressing episode, I persevered and proudly earned my Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. degrees in Chemical Engineering from USC. My loyalty to USC remains unwavering, as evidenced by my continued engagement with the university community.

However, recent events have reignited the pain of that past injustice. USC's decision to ban Muslim student Asna Tabassum from delivering the valedictorian speech, citing opposition from pro-Israel groups, echoes the discriminatory treatment I faced decades ago. The university's subsequent actions, including the decision to deploy police and the cancellation of the commencement ceremony, only exacerbate the injustice and betray the principles of free speech and inclusivity.

As a proud Trojan, I condemn all forms of discrimination, including antisemitism and Islamophobia. It is essential to distinguish between Judaism as a faith and Zionism as an ideology, as I have had the privilege of collaborating with Jewish colleagues and partners throughout my career. Many within the USC community, regardless of background, stand in solidarity with Palestinians' rights and advocate for dignity and self-determination.

Fifty years ago, USC failed to address a real threat to student safety. Now, I urge the university to uphold its commitment to inclusivity, protect the rights of all students, and preserve freedom of speech on campus.

"Fight on!"

Dr. Saidi Ph.D