Muslim Students Report Harassment After Gaza Event at UNL
The university is reviewing the incident after a video showing an altercation with Muslim students circulated widely online.
The video, posted by Lincoln for Palestine, shows Roland Hesse confronting a group of students following an event hosted by Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), which focused on raising awareness about the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Wilhelmi Massay, a pediatric intensive care unit nurse from Omaha who traveled to Gaza twice since October 2023, spoke at the event, according to The Daily Nebraskan.
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In the video, Hesse makes inflammatory remarks, telling students they are "beyond demonic" and insulting the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
He also says, "until you stop doing that, the true god, Jesus, will let your people die." The beginning of the footage captures Hesse accusing the students of placing an anti-Israel sticker near his residence, an allegation the students denied. SJP also stated it does not distribute such materials.
Witnesses reported observing troubling behavior during the event, including Hesse reacting inappropriately when Massay recounted a tragic bombing in a mosque.
Following the video's release, SJP shared an anonymous statement from the students involved, emphasizing concerns over Islamophobia, anti-Arab sentiment, and anti-Palestinian racism. "As Muslims who wear the hijab, it is scary walking on campus knowing the violent perceptions that others may have," the statement said.
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The UNL Physics and Astronomy Department declined comment but noted that the Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance is handling the matter. UNL spokesperson Leslie Reed confirmed the university is addressing the situation under its nondiscrimination policies and is offering support services to affected students.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) urged UNL to investigate thoroughly and ensure the safety of all students.
Source: Agencies
