The White House has praised a group of University of North Carolina students who protected the American flag during a protest on campus over the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre commended the students, saying, “Protecting the American flag is admirable.”
The students, Pi Kappa Phi fraternity members, were seen holding up the flag while activists threw items at them. The moment went viral and sparked a GoFundMe campaign, which has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the group.
The protest on campus involved pro-Palestinian supporters replacing the American flag with a Palestinian flag, leading to skirmishes with counter-protesters. President Biden addressed the nation on Thursday, emphasizing the right to peaceful protest while condemning violence, vandalism, and disruptions to campus life.
The GoFundMe campaign, started by John Noonan, aimed to raise $15,000 but has far exceeded its goal. Donors include billionaire investor Bill Ackman, who contributed $10,000. Ackman had previously supported Rep. Dean Phillips in his primary challenge against Biden.
The White House’s praise for the students’ actions reflects the administration’s commitment to protecting free speech and peaceful assembly, while also condemning destructive behavior. The incident has sparked a wider conversation about campus protests and the importance of respectful dialogue and peaceful expression.
