Pro-Palestinian activists regularly encounter violent, sexually explicit, and racist harassment online. Maryam Iqbal, a Barnard freshman, was doxxed with graphic threats of violence targeting her body based on her activism. Ruth, an anti-Zionist Jew, experiences misogynistic and antisemitic remarks, showcasing a pervasive culture of online abuse. This alarming trend has historical roots, as evidenced by Leila, a Palestinian journalist, who faced severe threats after advocating for divestment from Israel, only to find police dismiss her concerns. The deep-seated hatred presents a growing concern for targeted individuals.
Maryam Iqbal describes how pro-Palestinian activists face violent, sexually explicit, and racist online harassment, stating, 'They'll say things like 'go to Gaza and get raped,' and they'll describe in very graphic detail how that would happen.' This expression reflects individuals' thoughts and fantasies of violence against her.
Ruth, a vocal anti-Zionist Jew, shares her experiences of receiving misogynistic and antisemitic messages online, including being called a 'Kapo c**t' and a 'self-gassing Jew,' noting that such messages are incredibly disturbing.
Leila, a Palestinian journalist, recounts receiving a deeply threatening message after publishing an op-ed, featuring her photo with a naked woman's body superimposed. When she sought police help, she felt dismissed immediately.
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