(NewsNation) — Nearly 70% of U.S. college students believe universities should unequivocally protect free speech, regardless of the potential for threats or inciting violence, according to an Axios survey.
The study, done by market research and analytics company The Harris Poll, found 68% of students argued for pushing the limits of speech on campus even if there’s some risk of violence.
Nearly 80% of students said university campus speech should be protected even if some feel “the language is deeply upsetting.”
As the Israel-Hamas war rages in Gaza, there’s a battle for public opinion flaring in the U.S., with angry rallies on many college campuses.
Among the catalysts are Palestinian and Jewish-led groups that have been active for years in opposing Israeli policies toward the Palestinians and who now demand a cease-fire in Gaza. They have clashed with pro-Israel groups in the past and are doing so again.
The groups have roots in a movement known as BDS, which calls for the boycott, divestment and sanction of Israel.
That campaign generated heated rhetoric long before Hamas militants attacked Israel on Oct. 7 and Israel launched its counteroffensive. Advocates wrote op-eds for campus newspapers with appeals to protect Palestinian human rights, often accusing Israel of colonialism and racism.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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