Gloria Allred
“ Not upholding the Constitution is the greatest national security threat of all.” —Gloria Allred
Framing the current moment as a constitutional crisis, Allred called on graduates to take seriously their oath to support and defend the Constitution.
“Not upholding the Constitution,” she said, “is the greatest national security threat of all.”
She challenged the class to ask themselves if they were ready to be guardians of justice.
“These are extraordinary times — and extraordinary times call for extraordinary courage. We are counting on you to be the legal warriors who defend our democracy.”
Her voice thick with emotion, Allred added, “Yes, class of 2025, courage is contagious. You must resist, insist, persist — and elect those who will defend our Constitution and our democracy.”
Closing the ceremony, American University President Jonathan Alger reinforced the call to public service and civic responsibility.
“Our home in our nation’s capital makes us the right place to pursue that noble purpose,” he said. “You’ve developed an invaluable set of skills — and with those skills comes the responsibility to engage in civil discourse and defend democratic values.”
Alger highlighted AU’s Civic Life initiative, which promotes dialogue across differences and civic engagement as pillars of education and democracy.
“I’m proud to be part of a national move- ment urging graduates to be exemplars of civil discourse,” he said. “If AU graduates become known for this, we will change the world.”
Interim Dean Heather Hughes, Commencement Speaker Gloria Allred, and AU Trustee Pam Deese (SPA/BS ’80, WCL JD ’83).
View the Photo Gallery:
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AMERICAN UNIVERSITY WASHINGTON COLLEGE OF LAW 25
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