(Photo Courtesy of Public Domain)
Protests are the heartbeat of change in America. They are the pulse that reverberates through history, signaling the awakening of the collective consciousness to injustice and inequality. From the civil rights movement to the fight for independence, protests have been the catalysts for transformation throughout American history, pushing society forward towards a more just and equitable future.
Despite their undeniable influence and historical significance, protests are frequently scrutinized, ridiculed, and even condemned by those who oppose change and prefer to protect the current state. This contradiction is likely most visible in the depiction of college students who dare to speak up against injustice.
From the University of Southern California to the University of North Carolina (Chapel Hill), and even Ivy-covered walls (Columbia), in recent weeks, campuses across the country have become battlegrounds for a new wave of action, with students demanding accountability from their institutions in response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Their pleas for disengagement from Israel and solidarity with the Palestinians have been met with opposition, with some labeling them divisive and even extreme.
Yet we must not overlook the strength and aim of these protests. These are not acts of terror or chaos, but of courage and conviction. They are the voices of a generation that refuses to be silent in the face of injustice and refuses to accept responsibility for the pain of others.
As said by an anonymous freshman at UNC (Chapel Hill), “It is critical to understand that these protests are not about inciting violence or intolerance. They are about standing in solidarity with the downtrodden, speaking up against injustice, and holding those in positions of power accountable.” It is clear by these words that these students value using their voice and carrying ideas that will further the future of generations to come.
It is certainly undeniable that media coverage and political motivations have a significant impact on public perception. The portrayal of these protests as disruptive or hazardous undermines the students' voices and diverts attention away from the pressing issues. Despite the difficulties and obstacles they confront, these students persevere. They march, organize, and demand change. And history has often proved that collective actions of resistance lead to development.
In my opinion, we should not condemn these students for their activism, but rather applaud them for their courage and commitment to justice. These students are not just protesting; they are shaping the future, one demonstration at a time.
Comments