Animosity. Not the first word that should come to mind when thinking about college campuses across America. But it’s the word that best describes many of them this week.

By Wednesday evening, more than 400 individuals found themselves in police custody within 24 hours, amid fervent protests surrounding the Israel-Gaza conflict. As colleges approach the end of their academic years, it’s unsettling to witness the wave of protests, some of which have turned violent.

While colleges have long been hubs for civil disobedience, they must remain sanctuaries where students can freely engage in open discourse and delve into the complexities of global issues away from the shadow of violence and hate.

College should be a place for this exploration. It’s where learning and teaching intersect, where students should feel safe to express their perspectives peacefully and respectfully. Both administration and faculty play pivotal roles in creating an environment conducive to open dialogue and understanding. Colleges must establish comprehensive policies that address ambiguous situations to safeguard the well-being of the entire student body.

But it’s clear the protests are more centered on shouting matches and breaking rules than fostering meaningful dialogue. One complication is that reports indicate that a number of protesters may not have been students or not even affiliated with the respective institutions. Universities need to be aware of behind-the-scenes influences and to take steps to ensure that any protests that occur are driven by genuine student concerns, rather than outside agendas or manipulation.

Another troubling matter has been the face coverings hiding identities. They’re problematic because students must be taught that true progress and change require not only passion and dedication but also the courage to stand behind one’s beliefs openly and engage in honest, difficult conversations. This transparency can help ensure that student movements remain authentic, constructive, and inclusive, rather than devolve into destructive agendas and actions.

That’s why it’s important that faculty recognize their role in teaching students how to engage in conversations and protests thoughtfully. While they can guide and facilitate discussions, they shouldn’t stoke the fire. If faculty choose to participate in protests, they should stand alongside students, understanding the risks involved for both parties. They must help students understand how to participate in civil disobedience responsibly.

And it shouldn’t come at any cost. Students have been prevented from attending their classes due to ongoing protests and some will miss graduation. The rule of law must also be considered. While students may find stories of their mentors’ past arrests intriguing, they might have a different perspective if they face expulsion or even deportation, in the case of international students.

Also, let’s keep in mind most students attend college with the goal of securing employment afterward. Not all employers will view arrest records favorably.

Here in Maine, Colby College’s campus has been quiet, but it’s also been touched by the protests. A purported student group named “Colby Action for Palestine” recently provided the administration with a list of demands. They are extensive, ranging from divesting in specific holdings to urging Colby to sever its ties with Israeli universities and cease purchasing any food from Israel. In response, Colby President David Greene and other senior administrators sent an email to the community, reaffirming their commitment to preserving shared governance, academic freedom, and protecting the college community.

Like the masked protesters seen nationwide, these activists are anonymous. Their most recent letter states fears of potential repercussions such as arrests or deportations. Yet, such consequences only arise when laws are broken. Do these students plan on breaking laws? Their anonymity makes it difficult for the college to ascertain whether they are indeed students. How many of them are there? Are they members of the Colby community? Are they driven by a smaller group with specific political or ideological goals? Colleges and universities must carefully weigh the interests of all stakeholders and ensure that any decisions they make are in line with their institutional values and mission. Why should the college engage in any kind of meaningful discussion or actions with people unwilling to engage in face-to-face conversations like adults?

I know enough people at Colby to have heard the rumors that professors are actively encouraging students to instigate larger actions. This adds a layer of complexity. Asking students to stick their necks out for something they aren’t willing to do themselves is nothing but manipulation. You’re setting them up to fail.

Students want to be courageous? Be courageous. Sign your name. Uncover your face. Have a face-to-face conversation with someone who might disagree with you instead of making demands and hiding behind social media. Be willing to accept that a conversation requires talking and listening on both sides. For those who teach, this is not a takeover or hostage situation. Students pay to go to college to learn. Let’s teach them the difficult lesson of navigating conflicts, not creating more.

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