Fraternity's Fundraising for Flag Defense Sparks Controversy A viral image of fraternity members defending an American flag from pro-Palestinian protesters at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has sparked a fundraising campaign that has raised over $500,000. The campaign organizer, John Noonan, plans to use the funds for a party called "Flagstock" featuring beer, country music, and guests aligned with former President Donald J. Trump. However, the party has drawn criticism from some fraternity members who would have preferred the money to go to charity supporting Jewish organizations or relief efforts in Gaza. While some fraternity members see the party as a celebration of patriotism, others feel that it trivializes the serious and painful context in which the original flag defense took place. The controversy has also drawn attention from political figures, with the fraternity members being hailed as heroes by conservatives and even receiving a shoutout from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The party has prompted mixed reactions on the Chapel Hill campus, with some feeling that it detracts from the original purpose of the flag defense. The event has also raised questions about the use of the funds raised and the impact it will have.