The American paradox of protest: Celebrated and condemned, welcomed and muzzled ========== Protests, rallies, sit-ins, marches, and disruptions are hallmarks of American history. While Americans cherish the right to assemble and speak out, protests can also be met with irritation, condemnation, and opposition. Dissent is essential for democracy, but it must not lead to disorder. Protests have had an impact on public opinion, raising the visibility and salience of issues. Recent protests related to the Israel-Hamas war have faced opposition, with administrators and police calling for order and normal functioning. Disruption is seen as a necessary part of protest by some, while others believe demonstrations can be effective without blocking roadways or interrupting life. Campus protests have been criticized for descending into antisemitism and creating an unsafe atmosphere for Jewish students. The power of protest lies in impacting cultural conversations and altering the terms of debate. Protests have succeeded in changing the way people think about issues and putting them in the public consciousness. #Protests #AmericanHistory #Dissent #PublicOpinion #IsraelhamasWar #CampusProtests #Antisemitism https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/american-paradox-protest-celebrated-condemned-welcomed-muzzled-109936545