College students across the nation are expressing concerns to Fox News Digital as they anticipate the return of anti-Israel protests on their campuses. Some fear for their safety, especially Jewish students, while others support the right to free speech.
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As students return to college campuses across the nation, many are expressing concerns about the potential for anti-Israel protests and violence. These concerns stem from a recent wave of anti-Israel sentiment and protests that have taken place on college campuses in the past year.
Campus Violence: Students Voice Concerns Over Anti-Israel Protests
Vivian, a student at New York University, told Fox News Digital that there is a lot of tension between groups of students on her campus right now and that she anticipates protests will occur. She believes the protests will take a different form than they did last semester due to limited gathering spaces on campus.
Lily, a student at the University of Tennessee, recalled a frightening experience when she tried to walk by an anti-Israel protest last semester. She was verbally harassed and filmed by protesters as she attempted to get to class.
Campus Violence: Students Voice Concerns Over Anti-Israel Protests
Students at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, expressed praise for the university's handling of the demonstrations. Some said that protesters on both sides of the conflict were respectful and peaceful, while another said the university is doing a good job at allowing students to express themselves.
However, Dylan, a law student at Marquette University, expressed concern for Jewish students and their safety on campus. He said he has seen antisemitic incidents around the country and feels particularly bad for Jewish students who face antisemitism.
Campus Violence: Students Voice Concerns Over Anti-Israel Protests
Riley, a student at the University of Houston, told Fox News Digital that she has seen antisemitic stickers posted in elevators on campus, which she finds concerning. Marina, a Jewish student at New York University, said she does not feel safe and is even more concerned about antisemitism coming from school teachers.
Students who spoke with Fox News Digital expressed both disapproval and support for the anti-Israel protests. Noah, a student at the University of Tennessee, said he is against what the protesters stand for and knows other students who feel uncomfortable with their presence on campus. Cameron, a student at the University of Houston, said he is pro-Palestinian and supports the protesters' efforts to speak out against the genocide.
Campus Violence: Students Voice Concerns Over Anti-Israel Protests
Despite differing opinions on the anti-Israel protests, students agreed on the importance of freedom of speech. Jacks, a student at the University of Tennessee, said that freedom of speech is still a right that Americans can exercise. Antonio, a student at Marquette University, emphasized the need for respect and listening to different perspectives.
Fox News Digital reached out to the Anti-Defamation League and the American Jewish Committee for comment on the concerns raised by students. The Anti-Defamation League said it is aware of the incidents of antisemitism on college campuses and is working to combat them. The American Jewish Committee said it is also concerned about the rise in antisemitism and is working to support Jewish students on campus.
