Anti-Israel Protesters Vandalize ROTC Building at UNC; Fraternity Brothers Step In to Clean Up

In a recent incident at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), anti-Israel protesters vandalized the ROTC Naval Armory during a planned demonstration organized by the local Students for Justice in Palestine chapter and affiliated anti-Israel groups. The event, dubbed the Walk Out for the West Bank, resulted in extensive property damage and disruption across the campus.

Protest and Vandalism

Participants entered at least nine academic buildings, using spray paint and permanent markers to deface walls and facilities. The slogans left behind included inflammatory messages such as Israel Bombs, USA Pays, “Burn,” “Riot,” “Death to the US,” and “Death to UNC.” The vandalism not only interrupted classes but also significantly marred the pristine condition of historic campus structures.

Extent of Damage

The ROTC Naval Armory, a recognized historic site listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was specifically targeted by protesters. Notably, they removed the American flag that adorned the building and replaced it with a Palestinian flag. The act of defacement included extensive graffiti that compromised the building’s exterior quality and integrity.

Response by Fraternity Members

In a show of solidarity and community responsibility, members from several fraternity houses quickly organized to address the damage. Volunteers gathered to clean the ROTC building, scrubbing off graffiti and raising the American flag once more, reaffirming their support for the institution and its values.

University Response

UNC Chancellor Lee Roberts issued a statement condemning the vandalism. He asserted that while the university values free expression and peaceful protest, it will not tolerate acts that damage public property or disturb academic activities. Roberts emphasized the commitment to hold those responsible for the vandalism accountable.

Historical Context

This incident is not an isolated event; it follows previous occurrences where student activists replaced the American flag with Palestinian flags. These acts have sparked significant debate and concern among students and faculty alike, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding campus protests related to international issues.

Public Reaction

The vandalism and subsequent cleanup drew widespread attention on social media platforms. Many shared videos and images capturing both the initial defacement and the fraternity members’ efforts to restore the ROTC building, generating discussions about campus culture, freedom of expression, and respect for property.

The incident at UNC serves as a stark reminder of the complex interplay between activism and civility on university campuses, raising questions about boundaries in demonstrations and the responsibilities of students to maintain a respectful environment.