Harvard Medical School graduate dedicates speech to Lebanon and Palestine

Graduate’s Graduation Speech Focuses on Lebanon and Palestine

Lebanon-based Harvard Medical School graduate Leen Ezzeddine delivered her commencement speech, highlighting the contradictions of learning about ‘health equity’ in a university setting where students were instructed to remain silent during Israel’s ongoing conflict with Palestine and Lebanon.

Ezzeddine addressed the audience at Harvard Medical School, discussing the apparent disconnect between the institution’s emphasis on health equity and its handling of student activism surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The speaker did not explicitly mention the university’s policies or actions but instead focused on her personal experience as a medical professional in the region.

Ezzeddine stated that she had learned about ‘health equity’ at Harvard Medical School, which emphasizes the fair distribution of healthcare resources and services to all individuals, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. However, she noted that this concept was not consistently applied when it came to student activism on campus.

The speaker’s speech was dedicated to Lebanon and Palestine, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region. Ezzeddine emphasized the importance of addressing health disparities and promoting social justice in her community.

Ezzeddine’s commencement speech has sparked interest among Harvard Medical School graduates and the broader medical community, with some expressing support for her message and others questioning the university’s handling of student activism. The speaker’s words have also resonated with many who are concerned about the intersection of healthcare and social justice.

Source: Al Jazeera