Stephen Colbert's Harvard Event Interrupted by Fire Alarm Amid Picket Line Controversy
A Harvard University event featuring Stephen Colbert and cellist Yo-Yo Ma was abruptly cut short by a fire alarm after Colbert was accused of crossing a picket line. The event, part of the Office of the Arts’ 'Learning from Performers' series, was held on a Thursday. Members of the Harvard Graduate Students Union (HGSU), who have been on strike since October 27 for higher wages and better workplace protections, had requested Colbert and Ma to either relocate, postpone, or cancel their appearance in solidarity with the striking workers. Despite the union's plea, the event proceeded as scheduled in Sanders Theatre, leading to dozens of Harvard workers protesting outside. Approximately 40 minutes into the 90-minute conversation, a fire alarm sounded, leading to Colbert's evacuation. The HGSU stated on social media that the alarm was unrelated to their picketing activity and that they had no knowledge of its cause. Fiona Coffey, OFA director, expressed disappointment over the event's premature end.
