The mainstream media and political establishment ought to be more careful as to how they use the term “anti-Semitic” to characterize college/university protests.

“All men are created equal.” Every human life possesses the same intrinsic value regardless of religion, gender, behavior, race, or ethnicity.

The signs used at these protests should be indicative of the latter truths. It would better serve their purpose in promoting human rights for the Palestinians. The communications should engender the message of “The Golden Rule” ( “Treat every human being the way you want to be treated.”) from the Sermon on the Mount.

Hamas’ horrendous action in October 2023 should be condemned. And so too, the killing of thousands of innocent Palestinians in Gaza by the Israeli defense forces. The media is mixing – with one broad stroke – “Hamas” and “Palestinians.” That broad stroke is not acceptable and causes misunderstanding.

There is nothing wrong with protesting for human rights for the Palestinians and doing so in light of what the Carpenter from Nazareth (Jesus), Mahatma Gandhi, and Martin Luther King, Jr. expressed: non-violence and the equality and intrinsic value of every human being. There is nothing wrong with respectfully expressing one’s opinion that America’s foreign policy is often one-sided. Respect and promote fair/honest dialogue concerning the equality of all human beings, Israelis and Palestinians.

People should educate themselves and not rely on a biased media concerning this longstanding Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Unfortunately, with expanded Israeli settlements in Palestinian areas the opportunity of a two-state solution is diminished.