Graduation season is upon us, and with it comes the age-old tradition of having a distinguished speaker impart their wisdom upon the graduating class. This year, a number of speakers have chosen to focus their speeches on democracy, the importance of free college education, and the value of being a “weird person.”
In a time when democracy is under threat in many parts of the world, it is crucial for young people to understand the importance of actively participating in the democratic process. Graduation speakers are reminding students that democracy is not a given, and that it requires constant vigilance and participation in order to thrive. They are encouraging students to use their voices and their votes to uphold democratic values and push for positive change in their communities and beyond.
Another hot topic on the graduation circuit this year is the issue of free college education. With student debt in the United States reaching crisis levels, many speakers are calling for a paradigm shift in the way we think about higher education. They argue that access to education should not be a privilege reserved for the wealthy, but a fundamental right that is accessible to all. By advocating for free college education, graduation speakers are challenging the status quo and pushing for a more equitable society where all students have the opportunity to fulfill their potential.
Finally, some graduation speakers are choosing to address the value of being a “weird person.” In a world that often prizes conformity and uniformity, they are championing the importance of embracing one’s quirks and idiosyncrasies. They remind students that it is okay to be different, to stand out from the crowd, and to march to the beat of their own drum. By celebrating uniqueness and individuality, these speakers are encouraging students to be true to themselves and to not be afraid to be a little bit weird.
In a time of great uncertainty and upheaval, graduation speakers are using their platforms to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders. By focusing on democracy, free college education, and the value of being a “weird person,” they are challenging students to think critically, act boldly, and embrace their own uniqueness. As graduates embark on the next chapter of their lives, these messages will serve as a reminder to stay true to their values, stand up for what they believe in, and never be afraid to be a little bit different.