Thursday, 4:30 PM
Rice speech at BC draws jeers, cheers
By Sarah Schweitzer and Catherine Elton, Globe Staff and Globe correspondent
About 200 protestors with bullhorns and drums rallied today outside Alumni Stadium, where Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice gave the commencement address to Boston College graduates.
The protestors included peace activists and one man, who said he lost his son in Iraq and dragged a coffin around with a photo of his son on it.
One student in a cap and gown walked out of the ceremony when Rice began speaking and said, "I'll go back in when she's done talking."
But inside the stadium, the protests appeared muted. About 50 students turned their backs when Rice's speech began, but there were no boos or other interruptions. Several students said they didn't protest because they wanted to savor graduation.
Other students cheered Rice, who Rice told graduates that their education comes with responsibilities.
She drew scattered applause when she discussed what she called a "commitment to reason," or an obligation to test and challenge their own views. "There is nothing wrong with holding an opinion and holding it passionately," Rice said, "but at those times when you are absolutely sure you're right, go find someone who disagrees."
The speaking invitation and the honorary law degree awarded to Rice divided the Jesuit campus. Opponents said the college shouldn't honor someone they argue has lied repeatedly about the war in Iraq, but supporters said her rise to one of the most important posts in the US government is an inspiration to many.
