The link gives context I can respond to, but the article also misinforms about certain things I can probably illuminate since the article mentions Syracuse University and I happen teach here at SU. First, both this article and your response mention the term "segregation." Let's correct that. It doesn't apply. Here's why. Historically, segregation is the practice of keeping certain groups strictly excluded from interacting with one another in any and all social circumstances because of an implicit belief that one group of lives is inferior or dangerous to the other, often based on reasons as superficial as skin color, ethnic or religious identity, or sexual orientation. There is no segregation practiced today on the SU campus. But there are PLENTY of differentiated experiences here, as is the case on any college campus. Degree programs and their culminating experiences are differentiated. The honors college curriculum is differentiated. Fraternities and sororities, social clubs and student organizations, all differentiated. And yet these same students all interact with one another every day. The eat together, use the same bathrooms, attend the same events, date one another. You get the picture. Differentiated learning experiences is NOT segregation. Following from this, there are smaller differentiated graduation ceremonies all over campus where different achievements are celebrated--varying from undergrads to Master's and doctoral students, to different academic and social organizations, to international student groups, to ethnic and religious groups. EVERYONE has the opportunity to select and be supported and feel a special sense of belonging to one or more groups that accept them just as they are without hidden biases, and EVERYONE is also invited to participate together in one massive commencement ceremony for the whole graduating class. Research proves that students simply do better completing their studies in school and away from home when they have affinity groups they can be themselves with. On top of this, students who come from minoritized groups that have historically been marginalized, excluded, or segregated STILL need extra supports along the way. At SU, Itanwa Orinwa is one of our many differentiated graduation ceremonies, this one celebrating the achievements of SU graduates of color. See link: https://calendar.syracuse.edu/events/2023-may-12/2023-itanwa-orinwa/. Not every BIPOC student participates, but it's there for those who would find it to be a memorable touchstone event. I happen to be an SU alum and as a first-generation college graduate whose parents were born without the right to vote and having no access to attend college, I would DEFINITELY have participated in Itanwa Orinwa in addition to our final all-university commencement ceremony. Our students love it and as long as its needed and valued, we'll continue to offer it every year.