Tensions flared at Northeastern University's commencement ceremony at Fenway Park on Sunday as a 23-year-old was arrested in the midst of undergraduate celebrations. According to NBC10 Boston, the Boston Police did not disclose the charges faced by the individual who attempted to disrupt the ceremony. Northeastern, confirming the arrest, stated that the incident was quickly handled, ensuring the event, attended by nearly 30,000, continued with minimal disturbance.

The detainee's status, whether as a student or guest, remains unclear, but footage showed the individual was intercepted by security while approaching the main stage and causing a commotion. At another event, a graduate student protested Northeastern's alleged involvement in genocide by storming the stage clad in fake blood and a shirt branded "NEU KILLS." CBS Boston reported that the individual was promptly apprehended by security.

Amidst stricter security measures including metal detectors and prohibitions on flags and banners, other incidents of contention arose. A video posted to Instagram, obtained by NBC10 Boston, showed a Palestinian flag being taken from a student just before crossing the stage. Northeastern quickly rectified the mistake, citing a policy that allows only smaller flags to be carried at the ceremony.

While graduates waved flags of different nations, the ceremonies were largely peaceful thanks to the heightened security presence. Boston Police had to intervene after the crowd became rowdy as speakers voiced their opinions on the Israel-Hamas war. "We respect your passion and opinions, we respect your right to voice them in the appropriate setting," said Kellee Tsai, the Dean of the College of Social Sciences and Humanities in a moment captured by The Boston Globe. She implored, "Out of respect for your community and honored guests, I ask that you let us continue with this event."

After the ceremony, students expressed varying reactions, with some anticipating such demonstrations in light of recent campus activism. Northeastern graduate Peyton Cauthen acknowledged to CBS Boston, "I think people expected it but there was a lot of security out there. They really had it under wraps. I really commend them for that but it's not the time." In contrast, student speaker Rebecca Bamidele brought to light the dire circumstances faced by civilians in Gaza, earning applause for her moving remarks on peace and injustice.