At the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, members of the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity bravely shielded an American flag from water bottle projectiles launched by pro-Palestine demonstrators during a campus protest. Videos circulating on social media captured the fraternity members standing firm, holding the flag aloft despite facing hostility from masked protesters.
Despite the fraternity’s valiant efforts, the protesters eventually succeeded in raising a Palestine flag on the Chapel Hill campus. However, the fraternity’s actions garnered widespread attention online, prompting a GoFundMe campaign that has raised over $228,000 in support of the frat’s patriotic stance.
Expressing gratitude, the fraternity stated on the GoFundMe page, “We are overwhelmed by you glorious, Patriotic Americans who value good beer and great times.” They also mentioned being in contact with other fraternity leaders who assisted in defending the flag.
In response to the flag incident, UNC Interim Chancellor Lee Roberts personally intervened, removing the Palestine flag and reinstating the American flag. Roberts received applause as workers restored the flag to its rightful place on the flagpole. However, the flag was later taken down and removed, leading to the dispersal of the protestors and the cancellation of classes for the remainder of the day.
Police intervened to clear an encampment, resulting in the detention of several protestors, some of whom were later arrested for trespassing. Roberts emphasized the university’s commitment to upholding policies while respecting the right to assemble and express views.
Similarly, in New York City, police restored the American flag at City College of New York after protesters raised a Palestine flag on campus. Mayor Eric Adams criticized the display of the foreign flag, asserting the importance of American symbols and values.