Concerns Over Rutgers Professor Lead to Online Class and Petition
A Rutgers University professor, often referred to as “Dr. Antifa” by some students, has decided to move his class online and relocate to Europe amid growing safety concerns. This decision comes as the Turning Point USA chapter on campus has initiated a petition to have him removed.
In a letter emailed to students, Professor Mark Bray expressed his distress, stating, “Unfortunately, my situation has been getting worse recently.” He mentioned receiving threats, including one that provided his home address. He assured that both the university and authorities have been alerted.
Bray, who is known for his books like “Antifa: The Anti-Fascist Handbook,” indicated that he would be relocating to Europe with his family for safety reasons. “My family and I don’t feel safe at home right now,” he wrote, adding that he regretted missing classroom interactions with students.
The petition launched by the Rutgers Turning Point USA chapter expresses concerns about Bray’s past supportive statements towards Antifa. The petition reads, “As students at Rutgers University, we are deeply concerned about Dr. Mark Bray’s employment.” It describes him as a significant figure in the Antifa movement and raises alarms about his influence in light of recent violence against conservative activists.
Bray’s writings discuss his commitment to donate a significant portion of his book revenues to the International Anti-Fascist Defense Fund, which is supported by various Antifa activists globally.
Ava Kwan, the outreach coordinator for the campus Turning Point USA chapter, commented on Bray’s recent social media post that seemed to call for aggressive anti-fascism, saying, “We want the university to address this issue.” She reflected on the implications of his actions for the university’s reputation, especially if he carries on his work from abroad.
Despite the ongoing discussions, students remain concerned. Megin Doyle, a treasurer for the Turning Point USA chapter, acknowledged the importance of free speech while also condemning any form of harassment in regard to Bray. “Even with Mark Bray’s departure, the issues surrounding free expression at the university are not resolved,” she noted.
In a recent post, Bray promoted an upcoming event in New York City related to anti-fascism. Meanwhile, Rutgers University has stated they are monitoring the situation and gathering more information regarding Bray and the petition.
