Rutgers Professor Fleeing Death Threats Amid Online Campaign Against Anti-Fascist Expert

Breaking News: Rutgers Professor Mark Bray Fleeing Death Threats Amid Online Campaign Rutgers University professor Mark Bray, a historian and author of the 2017 book Antifa: The Anti-Fascist Handbook, has fled his home due to death threats and online harassment. On October 4, an email campaign accusing him of supporting terrorist behavior was launched by the Rutgers chapter of Turning Point USA, which was amplified by Fox News. Timeline of Events October 4: Bray receives emails with death threats, including one containing his home address. October 5: The online petition gains momentum, and Bray's home address is leaked on X (formerly Twitter). October 6: Bray decides to flee his home for safety reasons. Immediate Impact and Response Bray's decision to leave his home has sparked concerns about the impact of online harassment on academic freedom. "I'm not suspected of any crimes," Bray said in an interview. "I'm just a professor." The incident highlights the dangers of online vigilantism and the need for institutions to protect their faculty members from such threats. Background Context Bray's book, Antifa: The Anti-Fascist Handbook, has been criticized by some as promoting violence against fascists. However, Bray has maintained that his work is focused on understanding and countering fascist ideologies, not promoting violence. This incident raises questions about the role of online platforms in facilitating harassment and the responsibility of institutions to protect their faculty members. What Happens Next The Rutgers University administration has issued a statement condemning the online campaign and death threats against Bray. The university has also offered support to Bray and his family. As for Bray, he is currently staying with friends and will continue to teach remotely until the situation is resolved. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the growing threat of online harassment and the need for institutions to prioritize academic freedom and faculty safety. Technical Analysis This incident highlights the limitations of AI-powered content moderation in preventing online harassment. While AI can identify and flag suspicious content, it often relies on human judgment to determine what constitutes harassment. In this case, the online campaign against Bray was amplified by Fox News, demonstrating how mainstream media can perpetuate online vigilantism. Implications for Society This incident raises important questions about the impact of online harassment on academic freedom and the role of institutions in protecting their faculty members. It also highlights the need for more effective content moderation strategies that prioritize human judgment and empathy. As AI continues to shape our online interactions, it is essential to consider the implications of these technologies on society and develop policies that promote a safer and more inclusive online environment. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Motherjones reporting.*