A striking event at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has caused a flurry of online reactions. UNC Chapel Hill fraternity brothers stood up, surrounding the American flag and protecting it from vandalism by pro-Palestine protesters on campus. Images and video of the incident have elicited strong reactions American public, many of which include praise and applause.

One of the best photos of 2024 so far:

Fraternity brothers are pelted by anti-Israel protesters at UNC Chapel Hill while protecting the United States flag as it is re-hoisted following its removal by protesters.

Well done, gentleman. 🫡🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/0DiBQcVLBu

— Max Meyer (@mualphaxi) May 1, 2024

Many view the young men's actions as a demonstration of patriotism, upholding the values and principles of the United States, and protecting the country's symbols. These sentiments are often expressed by conservative voters who may feel the protests represent a threat to American values and traditions. However, many Americans who value the flag seem to support the students defending it.

A significant portion of the online discussion expresses a desire to see more young people, particularly strong young men, take an active role in upholding American values. Those who appreciate and champion the frat brothers' actions declare support and even donations.

• National sentiment toward protests and universities increased slightly after sensational events like the UNC frat boys defending the flag.
• Discussion volume has also increased in the last few days.

Throw a Rager GoFundMe

A GoFundMe started to “throw a rager” in celebration of the frat boys’ actions raised more than $500,000 in the first two days. This suggests American voters feel positively about supporting pro-America causes.

Discussion about the GoFundMe is slightly more divided, despite the significant amount of funds raised. Some feel that fraternity brothers are taking advantage of the generosity of others to fund what they perceive as an unnecessary and indulgent event. They argue GoFundMe should be used to raise money for important causes like medical bills, education, or disaster relief, rather than for a fraternity party.

On the other hand, many see no issue with the campaign, arguing the fraternity brothers have every right to fundraise for their party if people are willing to donate. They say the GoFundMe platform is open to all types of fundraising efforts and it is up to individual donors to decide where their money goes. Supporters of the campaign often view it as a harmless, fun way for the fraternity to celebrate and unwind.

Criticism of Counter-Protesters

Those who criticize the frat boys’ actions view them as an attempt to suppress or invalidate the protests. Often progressives and pro-Palestine sympathizers, this group argues the students’ actions ignore the broader issues Palestine protests aim to address. They prioritize the issues of police brutality and alleged genocide by Israel.

Many speaking out against the counter-protesters argue actions like those of the frat brothers – and even of police – are infringing on the protesters' right to free speech and peaceful assembly. They believe counter-protester actions, and the American support they have received, reflect a broader societal issue of intolerance towards dissenting views.

This group also highlights a perception of police brutality against pro-Palestine protesters. They say law enforcement's response has been excessively violent and unnecessary. They express concern about the potential for these incidents to escalate and result in further harm to students. There’s also a perceived double standard in police response to different pro-Palestine protesters versus pro-Israel and pro-America counter-protesters.

Unexpected Unity Against Joe Biden

A similar campus protest event revealed a surprising emergence of solidarity between two very opposed groups. A unique amalgamation of anti-Israel protesters and Trump supporters at University of Alabama began chanting together in disapproval of President Joe Biden. This unlikely moment of unity has also been garnering attention. The shared sentiment, expressed in “F*** Joe Biden” chants, is a notable point of convergence between two distinctly different groups.

.@UofAlabama — Both left-wing and right-wing demonstrators protesting against and for Israel unite in chants of, “F— Joe Biden.” pic.twitter.com/2DwMyW4X1g

— Andy Ngô 🏳️‍🌈 (@MrAndyNgo) May 1, 2024

As MIG Reports has previously analyzed, President Biden's approval ratings have been fluctuating and he has received backlash on several key issues. Thus, it is not entirely surprising to see protests of his administration. However, the coupling of anti-Israel protests with Trump supporters' vocal disapproval of Biden has certainly raised eyebrows.

While the two groups share a common dislike for the current administration, their reasons differ greatly. Anti-Israel protesters are often driven by concerns over the Israel-Hamas conflict, whereas Trump supporters primarily voice dissatisfaction with Biden's domestic policies.

Many online made sarcastic comments suggesting Joe Biden had finally delivered on his promise to bring America together.

White Boy Summer and a Resurgence of Patriotism

The term "White Boy Summer" has also gained significant attention, primarily due to its use in a viral internet meme. The phrase was popularized by Chet Hanks, son of actor Tom Hanks, in 2021. The phrase is often used to call for young American men to embrace positivity and respect for all races, along with American values.

Since its rise to popularity, the phrase has been taken up by many conservatives who identify as patriotic. It is often to represent a broader movement of young men aiming to "save" America and has recently been applied to the UNC fraternity brothers and other like students chanting “We want Trump” at University of Mississippi.

College kids at Ole Miss chant “We want Trump!

Can you feel the tide turning? pic.twitter.com/MpwEEQGKor

— 🇺🇸Travis Media Group🇺🇸 (@TM1Politics) May 2, 2024

Many conservative voters who use the term argue that young patriotic men are the backbone of America and have a crucial role to play in upholding traditional American values. They often emphasize themes such as personal responsibility, individual liberty, constitutional rights, and love of country.

There are references to those who embody White Boy Summer, like the University of North Carolina (UNC) fraternity boys, taking it upon themselves to counter the narrative of America's decline by engaging in various acts of community service and activism.