Small protests

Small protests form as Harvard Yard fills with beaming graduating seniors

From CNN's Danny Freeman in Cambridge, Massachusetts

Harvard was bursting with activity Thursday morning as thousands packed into historic Harvard Yard for commencement – all while the school’s ongoing battle with the Trump administration loomed over the day.

Beaming graduating seniors were decked out in caps and gowns as family members in suits and spring dresses swarmed to celebrate their loves ones.

Meanwhile, outside the campus’ main gates, two dozen or so pro-Palestinian protesters gathered amid lines into the commencement event. Older protesters who did not appear to be students held signs reading, “Gaza must have food and water,” and “Ceasefire Now.”

A smaller group of pro-Israel counterprotesters also stood outside the gates, with some among them arguing with some of pro-Palestinian protesters. Despite the crush of people filling the streets of Cambridge, all was relatively calm leading up to commencement.