UC Cancels Black Grad
UC Cancels Black Graduation Ceremony Amid DEI Legislation
Community Steps In
The University of Cincinnati has officially canceled its annual Black graduation celebration, Tyehimba, citing new legislation that restricts diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programming in higher education.
The move follows the signing of Ohio’s Senate Bill 1 by Governor Mike DeWine on March 28, 2025.
Tyehimba has been a long-standing tradition at UC . It’s a culturally significant ceremony designed to honor and uplift Black graduates in a space that centers their experiences and achievements.
For many students, it represents more than just a graduation event; it’s a moment of recognition, unity, and celebration of overcoming the unique challenges Black students often face on predominantly white campuses.
In a message sent to students who registered or inquired about the event, the African American Cultural and Resource Center (AACRC) announced the cancellation:
“Due to recent and forthcoming legislative changes at the federal and state levels, UC will no longer be able to host Tyehimba.”
While the university noted its continued commitment to Commencement on May 1 and 2, the decision to cancel Tyehimba has left many students disappointed and frustrated — especially as DEI rollbacks continue to gain momentum nationwide.
But the story doesn’t end there.
A local faith-based organization, Light of the World Church, has stepped up to keep the spirit of Tyehimba alive.
They announced a community-led celebration to honor Black graduates on May 2 at 7PM, hosted at Hughes High School in Cincinnati.
“This private event will celebrate graduating student accomplishments and the village that helped you reach the finish line,” the announcement reads.
Students can register for the community celebration at lowcincy.org/tyehimba.
According to the AACRC, any students who already paid for Tyehimba or purchased a graduation stole through the center will receive automatic refunds by the end of the month.
The cancellation reflects a broader wave of DEI-related restrictions sweeping across higher education. Institutions in multiple states are scaling back or completely eliminating programs that support marginalized student communities — often citing new legal requirements or political pressure.
Supporters of these policies argue they promote neutrality and focus on academic priorities. Critics, however, say these moves actively erase the progress made to support underrepresented groups and dismantle essential safe spaces for students of color.
