In a video capturing a viral moment, a black college graduate takes control of the microphone from a white educator who seemingly interrupted her from stating her full name.
Kadia Iman, a digital creator known for her presence on TikTok, can be seen confidently grabbing the mic from the surprised woman’s grasp, determined to make her voice heard.
Assertively, Iman exclaims, “I want the mic! Let go! You didn’t let me get my moment,” before proudly announcing her name to the gathered audience. With her graduation day finally here, she expresses her discontent over the mic being snatched away and declares that the spotlight will now solely be on her.”
Dressed in a black gown and a pink-topped cap, the graduate dramatically drops the mic and walks away, leaving onlookers in awe. A bystander can be heard exclaiming, “Oh! Drops the mic! Congratulations!”
Although the specific college from which she graduated remains undisclosed, the impact of her actions has resonated widely.
In a subsequent video, Iman provides further context and explanation for her actions. She recounts the incident, stating, “Basically, what happened was I was walking on, and we had to say our names before we got on the stage.” She continues, “So, I was saying my name, and she literally… my name is long, obviously, with three syllables.”
Iman goes on to share her observation that the educator appeared to hurriedly lower the microphone when it came to black students. Not wanting to let this inequality persist, she felt compelled to take a stand. “I just couldn’t let that happen,” she asserts alongside another student who noticed the same issue.
Reflecting on her decision to reclaim her moment, Iman expresses the hardships she endured throughout her academic journey. “I worked so hard to graduate and went through so much s–t to graduate that I just felt like I had to reclaim my moment,” she declares. She emphasizes her intentions, apologizing for any disruption caused, and clarifies that she does not seek to ruin anyone’s day.
The video has garnered an outpouring of support and congratulations from viewers. Another individual commended Iman’s accomplishment while drawing attention to the lack of intervention from security personnel.