This Can't Be: Chapel Hill’s Antisemitic Banner

In the heart of downtown Chapel Hill, North Carolina, just steps from the University of North Carolina campus, a banner displayed by Chapel Hill Community Arts & Culture has ignited a storm of controversy. Prominently featuring a protester wearing a keffiyeh and the hashtag “#GOODTROUBLE,” the banner has left many in the Jewish community feeling unsafe, disregarded, and deeply hurt.

The keffiyeh, a traditional Middle Eastern scarf, has long been a symbol of Palestinian nationalism. For many Jews, however, it has become a painful reminder of incitement and violence—particularly following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that brutally claimed the lives of over 1,200 Israelis, including 46 Americans. As one Chapel Hill resident pointed out, the banner seems to glorify not justice, but intimidation.

“It is appalling to think that anyone would consider ‘good trouble’ as celebrating the murder, rape, and kidnapping of thousands of innocent Israelis,” wrote former Raleigh City Council member Stefanie Mendell in a letter to Chapel Hill officials.  What is appalling is this person in leadership obviously doesn't understand the issue and the multitude of challenges the people in Chapel Hill's Jewish community face daily. 

The banner, located at Peace & Justice Plaza outside the town courthouse, has drawn widespread condemnation from residents. Many see it as an endorsement of anti-Israel activism that borders on hate. Local Jewish families, including relatives of Chapel Hill native Keith Siegel, who remains a hostage in Hamas tunnels, have voiced their anguish over the banner’s message.

A Divisive Symbol in a Place of Justice
Adding to the controversy is the location. The banner hangs above the courthouse where charges have been heard against members of Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), a group suspended by UNC for vandalism and other actions. Critics argue that this placement sends a chilling message—that the local government supports the very activism under scrutiny.

Kathy Kaufman, a Chapel Hill resident, expressed the deep fears many feel:
“This banner essentially equates ‘Good Trouble’ with support for Hamas terrorists going on a murderous rampage… What does this banner say to the families of hostages still held in Gaza?”

Outrage and Inaction
Despite the outcry, responses from Chapel Hill officials have been sparse and largely dismissive. Form letter replies to heartfelt letters of concern have only fueled frustration.

Law professor Deborah R. Gerhardt summed it up in her plea to officials:
“What message are you trying to send? That it is good to make trouble against fellow Jewish citizens? That it is good to make them feel unwelcome?”

This controversy in Chapel Hill is blatant antisemitism and one of the many challenges facing Jewish communities in America today. As Modern-Day Esthers, we stand with our sisters and brothers in Chapel Hill, praying for justice, safety, and compassion for all. 

Please contact the Chapel Hill Mayor, Jessica Anderson to express your outrage. 

[email protected]

Instagram: @mayorjessanderson 

 For the full article, read Peter Reitzes’ original piece in The Algemeiner here.