Introduction to the Incident
A University of Buffalo graduate was chased across the stage by police at Sunday’s commencement ceremony for carrying a prohibited item while he tried to collect his diploma: a baby.
Video of the commencement for the College of Arts and Sciences shows the student, Jean-Paul Al-Arab, running quickly from backstage to cut the line of graduates and insert himself in the proceedings, all while holding a baby dressed in a matching royal blue cap and gown.
The Commencement Ceremony
Al-Arab was trailed by at least two police officers and at least two people who appeared to be faculty members at the university. Unable to stop his sprint, Al-Arab shook hands with delighted graduation officials and stopped mid-stage — baby in his arms — as the crowd roared. He was then escorted off the stage by a police officer, the video shows.
University Response
A spokesperson for the University of Buffalo stressed in a statement to NBC News that police were not called to the commencement, but rather there were already officers present as part of normal safety protocol. Those officers "clearly conveyed the rules to Mr. Al Arab at commencement, as is seen in the video," the statement said. Al-Arab "ignored multiple directives from university event staff and UB police, ran away from officers, and broke commencement rules by bringing an infant onto the commencement stage at Alumni Arena," the school said in a release.
Rules and Regulations
The act was a violation of Buffalo’s commencement rules, it said, which clearly state that "only graduating students may participate in the graduation ceremony, including walking in the processional and crossing the stage." The rules are in place, the school said, to ensure safety for attendees and to avoid disruptions during the ceremony.
Al-Arab’s Side of the Story
But Al-Arab has a different story. In a TikTok posted by Al-Arab’s account and verified by NBC News, he said he asked during a commencement prep class whether he could walk with his baby. He said he was told that would be "fine." When it was time to walk, Al-Arab said, the guidance changed, and he was stopped by officials. "They tried to escort me out, but honestly, the only reason they let me go was because of all of you who cheered and supported me — so thank you," Al-Arab said.
Personal Circumstances
In the caption of the video, Al-Arab explained that while attending school full time, he also works two jobs — one overnight — while also taking care of his son during the day until the boy’s mom gets home from work. "And here I am, graduating, with my boy by my side," Al-Arab wrote. "WE DID IT!"
Outcome
Al-Arab sent an email apologizing to commencement officials Sunday afternoon, The University of Buffalo said. He will not be penalized and will still get his degree. "The infant, despite crossing the stage in a cap and gown, has not yet earned enough credits to receive a diploma," the school pointed out. "We hope to see him back on stage in about 20 years so he can follow in his dad’s footsteps."
Conclusion
The incident at the University of Buffalo’s commencement ceremony highlights the importance of following rules and regulations, while also showcasing the love and support of a father for his child. Despite the initial controversy, Al-Arab’s determination and dedication to his education and family are truly inspiring.
FAQs
- Q: What happened at the University of Buffalo’s commencement ceremony?
A: A graduate, Jean-Paul Al-Arab, was chased by police for bringing his baby onto the stage, which is against the university’s rules. - Q: Why did Al-Arab bring his baby onto the stage?
A: According to Al-Arab, he had asked permission during a commencement prep class and was told it would be fine, but the guidance changed when it was time to walk. - Q: Will Al-Arab be penalized for his actions?
A: No, Al-Arab will not be penalized and will still receive his degree. - Q: What does the future hold for Al-Arab’s baby?
A: The university hopes to see the baby back on stage in about 20 years to follow in his dad’s footsteps and receive his own diploma.
