Results for: Campus Unrest

Several undergraduate Jewish students have experienced disruptions and cancellations of their college graduation ceremonies amidst anti-Israel unrest on campuses nationwide. These students shared their experiences with Fox News Digital, expressing disappointment and frustration over the antisemitism and intimidation they faced. Amidst the protests, some students have reported being cyberbullied and harassed for displaying Israeli flags or expressing support for Israel. University administrations have faced criticism for allowing these disruptions and some students have even had their commencement speeches interrupted by anti-Israel agitators.

Gen X, known for its lack of involvement in major historical events, bears some responsibility for the current campus unrest. As parents and educators, Gen Xers prioritized protecting their children over instilling discipline and critical thinking. They failed to notice the indoctrination taking place in classrooms and supported university leaders who promoted trendy and divisive ideologies. As a result, many young adults today are unprepared for real life, struggle with mental health issues, and perpetrate campus protests that disregard civil discourse.

College campuses across the nation are experiencing a surge in radical, pro-Hamas activism, reminiscent of the violent Antifa protests of 2020 and 2021. This brand of activism is not new, but it is becoming increasingly structured, militant, and often escalates quickly, fostering environments where antisemitism can thrive unchecked. What we’re seeing unfold is a worrying echo of the Antifa-led disruptions during the Black Lives Matter movement, which often spiraled into violence and chaos.

President Joe Biden has finally addressed the campus unrest over the war in Gaza, condemning violence while supporting the right to peaceful protest. Amidst criticism for his previous silence and handling of the situation, Biden stated that destroying property, vandalism, and shutting down campuses is illegal and not a form of peaceful protest. He emphasized the importance of dissent in a democracy but stressed that it should not lead to disorder or infringe on the rights of others. In response to questions about deploying National Guard troops, Biden said he did not believe it was necessary.

Israel’s President Isaac Herzog has criticized US universities for the campus unrest over Israel’s war in Gaza, claiming that these institutions are becoming increasingly intolerant of anti-Semitism and hatred. His comments follow a series of protests at universities across the United States, where students have gathered to condemn the rising death toll in the Gaza Strip. These protests have posed challenges to university administrators, who are trying to balance free speech rights with allegations of criminal activity, anti-Semitism, and hate speech. Herzog emphasized the need for unity and resilience in the face of these challenges, calling on Jewish communities to stand strong against anti-Semitism and to fight for their rights to believe and belong.

Columbia University has become a hotbed of anti-Israel protests, with one student describing the atmosphere on campus as “chaos and disorder.” A watchdog organization has released footage capturing the tense encounters between protesters and those questioning their actions. The protests have been met with concern, including from Democratic Rep. Gottheimer, who expressed worry about sending his children to Columbia in light of the demonstrations. Despite safety concerns, classes have transitioned to hybrid or remote learning on the main campus. The protests have sparked calls for the resignation of Columbia University President Minouche Shafik, and the cameraman filming the agitators was reportedly assaulted.

Anti-Israel protests have escalated on college campuses across the country, leading to arrests and encampments. At the University of Minnesota, police cleared out an encampment and arrested nine protesters. Similar protests have occurred at Columbia University, New York University, and Yale University, prompting class cancellations and increased security. The daughter of Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, Isra Hirsi, was among those arrested at Columbia University. Universities have expressed support for free speech and peaceful protests but have acted to enforce trespassing laws and ensure campus safety.

Protests in support of Palestine erupted at New York University (NYU) on Monday, leading to arrests by the New York Police Department. The protests are part of a wave of campus demonstrations across the country in response to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.