Tensions Rise at the University of North Carolina: Wave of Protests Before Graduation

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) campus was the scene of great activity on Saturday, the day of graduation ceremonies. Students and activist groups gathered at the Peace and Justice Plaza in support of the pursuit of justice in Palestine and in support of students previously detained on campus. The protest was organized by Students for Justice in Palestine and resonated on social media.

The group marched toward the Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower near Kenan Memorial Stadium, hours before the 7 p.m. commencement ceremony. Protesters held banners and tents, while some marched to the South Building, where the Chancellor’s office is located, chanting slogans and throwing red paint on the stairs.

Reactions and Outcomes

During the protest, a group of protesters observed a moment of silence in memory of those who have died in Gaza since October. This was in response to Hamas attacks on Israel and the subsequent military reprisals by Israeli forces. A student, Samuel Scarborough, remembered his friends who were arrested and banned from campus and emphasized the need for justice.

Alicia Buckminster, a UNC graduate, said she hoped to be able to celebrate their graduation as a class tonight, recalling similar situations in 2020. The protest followed a clash between anti-Israel protesters and law enforcement officers at Polk Place. During the clashes, 36 protesters were detained and six people were arrested.

Conclusion

These events at the University of North Carolina have highlighted deep issues of both local and international politics and the sensitivity of young people to these issues. The community continues to call for justice and peace, and demands concrete action from the university administration.