Anti-Israel Protesters Vandalize UNC Chapel Hill Chancellor's Office, Smear Red Paint on Building

A group of anti-Israel protesters vandalized the office of UNC Chapel Hill's chancellor on Saturday, May 11, 2024, smearing red paint and writing profanities on the building.

The incident reportedly occurred as part of an anti-Israel demonstration on campus, sparked by the recent escalation of violence in the Gaza Strip. Protesters gathered outside the chancellor's office, demanding the university divest from companies doing business with Israel.

Anti-Israel Protesters Vandalize UNC Chapel Hill Chancellor's Office, Smear Red Paint on Building

According to witnesses, the protesters became increasingly agitated and began vandalizing the building. They smeared red paint on the walls and windows, wrote profanities, and even attempted to set fire to a door.

University officials and campus police responded to the scene and attempted to disperse the protesters. However, they were met with resistance, and several scuffles broke out.

Anti-Israel Protesters Vandalize UNC Chapel Hill Chancellor's Office, Smear Red Paint on Building

The vandalism caused significant damage to the chancellor's office and disrupted university operations. The university has since condemned the incident, calling it an "unacceptable act of violence and destruction."

In the wake of the vandalism, Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz released a statement expressing his disappointment and condemnation of the protesters' actions. He emphasized that the university respects the right to peaceful protest but will not tolerate violence or property damage.

Anti-Israel Protesters Vandalize UNC Chapel Hill Chancellor's Office, Smear Red Paint on Building

The vandalized building is a historic landmark on campus, known as Old East. It is the oldest building on the UNC Chapel Hill campus and has been the site of numerous protests and demonstrations throughout the university's history.

The incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of the campus community. University officials are working to increase security measures and provide support to students and faculty who may have been affected by the vandalism.

Anti-Israel Protesters Vandalize UNC Chapel Hill Chancellor's Office, Smear Red Paint on Building

The vandalism has also sparked a debate about the limits of free speech and the role of protest on college campuses. Some students and faculty have defended the protesters' right to express their views, while others have condemned the violence and destruction.

The incident has also drawn attention to the ongoing tensions between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel groups on campus. UNC Chapel Hill has been the site of several protests and demonstrations related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in recent years.

Anti-Israel Protesters Vandalize UNC Chapel Hill Chancellor's Office, Smear Red Paint on Building

University officials are urging the campus community to remain calm and respectful during this difficult time. They are also asking students and faculty to report any suspicious activity to campus police.