Last week, many students witnessed what was perhaps one of the most intense recent demonstrations in opposition to Gary Birdsong, also known as the Pit Preacher, as an unidentified man vigorously protested near Birdsong with a homophobic slur written across his chest and a sex toy in hand.
This incident will hopefully serve as a reminder to students of the difference between discretionary, effective public discourse and useless antics.
Regardless of his Facebook post stating the contrary, it is undeniable that this man’s actions were seen by the public as a response to Birdsong.
Admittedly, the vast majority of UNC students likely disagree with Birdsong’s radical and offensive opinions. This is not, however, an excuse for opposition to fall into using inflammatory and physically aggressive methods of response.
Devolving to the type of antics demonstrated by the protesting student this past week does nothing to prevent or alter the conversation concerning Birdsong’s beliefs. The protest only draws attention to the novelty of the antics and the necessary response by Student Union staff in detaining the protester, not the object of the protest. There was little talk among students of the protester’s message, as news surrounding the event largely revolved around every other aspect of the display.
The issues actually being protested by the man will never be effectively combatted by juvenile, crude acts of dissent.
There are countless opportunities for activists to respond to the opposition’s views. At the end of the day, the message of any protest or demonstration should be more visible than the means. Future protesters should remember exactly how antics such as those employed here appear in the public eye.
