We’re all going to be sitting in on these graduations!
Barack and Michelle Obama have announced that they will be giving commencement speeches during a number of virtual graduation honoring the Class of 2020.
With schools closed and in-person graduations subsequently cancelled as a result of the global pandemic, many graduates will be having symbolic graduations from the comfort of their homes. Last month, a tweet requesting Barack Obama to give a graduation speech went viral, prompting thousands to retweet, asking the former President and First Lady to offer some hope to students during this time. Apparently, the Obamas heard your cry, and now they are honoring that request.
Forever First Lady took to social media to announce the couple’s participation in YouTube’s “Dear Class of 2020” special. The virtual graduation will feature special appearances from Kerry Washington, Kelly Rowland, Alicia Keys, actress Zendaya and singers Chloe x Halle. The special will also feature commencement speeches from Malala Yousafzai, former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, and The Obamas.
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“I know how hard you all have worked to make it to graduation. You’ve put in long hours studying. You’ve thrown yourself into extracurricular activities and after-school jobs. And you’ve done everything you can to be there for your friends through it all. Some of you will be the first in your families to graduate from high school or college, making this occasion all the more special. And I know that none of you imagined you would be closing this chapter of your life through a computer or phone screen. But I still want to make sure you still get the celebration you deserve. That’s why, through my @reachhigher initiative, I’m working with @youtube Originals to host a special virtual graduation for you,” Michelle Obama wrote.
Forever President Barack Obama also took to social media to announce even more appearances for virtual graduations, including a special appearance at LeBron James’ “Graduate Together” event and at the “Show Me Your Walk, HBCU Edition.”
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“I’ve always loved joining commencements – the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice. Even if we can’t get together in person this year, Michelle and I are excited to celebrate the nationwide Class of 2020 and recognize this milestone with you and your loved ones,” Barack Obama said.
“Graduate Together” airs May 16th at 8pm EST. “Show Me Your Walk, HBCU Edition” will stream May 16th at 2pm EST. “Dear Class of 2020” airs June 6th at 3pm EST, attendees can RSVP here.
Special thanks to The Obamas for continuing to show up for us, even when they don’t have to.
Photo Courtesy of Charles Rex Arbogast/AP Photo