Rep. Richard Hudson, R-NC, has called for the immediate termination of professors who are withholding students' grades in support of anti-Israel rioters. This statement follows reports that professors at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill organized a protest where they planned to withhold final grades unless the university reinstates students allegedly suspended during an anti-Israel demonstration.
Hudson took to Twitter to express his stance, stating that UNC professors should prioritize protecting students who are targets of antisemitism and violence rather than supporting bigots and antisemites. He emphasized the need to fire any faculty or staff participating in withholding grades without delay.
In response to the situation, UNC-Chapel Hill issued a letter advising professors and faculty members against withholding students' final grades. The university administration aims to address the academic disruption caused by the protest.
The unrest at UNC-Chapel Hill stemmed from recent anti-Israel demonstrations on campus. During these protests, individuals tore down an American flag and replaced it with the Palestinian flag, symbolizing their support for the Palestinian cause. This act of defiance led to heightened tensions on campus.
To restore order, university administrators intervened by instructing police to clear the protest encampment. As a result, participating students were required to vacate the area, and some faced disciplinary measures for their involvement in the disruptive activities.