Hundreds Gather Outside Dakota State Commencement bezpoصند
MADISON, S.D. (KELO) – A large group of demonstrators gathered outside the commencement event at Dakota State University on Saturday during U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s speech to the graduating class.
Ever since DSU revealed that the ex-South Dakota governor would be their graduation ceremony speaker, the choice has attracted considerable acclaim as well as censure.
Shortly before graduation, many individuals gathered along Washington Avenue in Madison. The biggest crowds were clustered around 2nd and 9th Streets. These spectators remained throughout the whole event, with several staying even after Secretary Noem left via helicopter.
Multiple individuals opposed Noem being awarded an honorary degree.
"I simply find it absurd that she is receiving this honor," rally attendee Ronan Wicks commented.
Some people disagreed with her stance on immigration.
"Particularly, her approach to managing Trump's immigration policies, the problems arising from international student visas and their revocation, along with the absence of due process and the overall stance of the Trump administration," stated Anden Wieseler, a rally attendee and student at Dakota State University.
Nevertheless, not all were supportive of the rally.
"I support her. Personally, I disagree with the protest," Matthew Birkeland stated.
Birkeland is enrolled as a student at Dakota State University.
"I believe everyone has the right to participate in protests and express themselves as they see fit. It's positive to see people voicing their opinions, but I feel it might be somewhat distracting for the graduating students," Birkeland stated.
"Community members are carrying placards with the message, 'Congratulations, graduates, you deserve more.' Chants such as 'Graduates deserve better' have also been heard. Absolutely, we stand behind the graduates and believe today belongs to them," stated Wieseler.
However varied the perspectives may be, attendees at the rally emphasized the significance of raising awareness.
"I believe that protests are fundamental to this nation. The founders intended for everyone’s voice to be heard, as we all have strong opinions," Wicks stated.
In addition to the Secret Service, law enforcement personnel from the Madison Police Department, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol were also in attendance at the event.
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