Veterans Day Protests Spark Campus Tension

On Veterans Day, rallies and parades occurred across the country, highlighting both support for veterans and protests against the holiday's implications. In Eugene, Oregon, union members protested against Bigfoot Beverages and Franz Bakery, demanding fair contracts and better treatment from their employers, with union representatives expressing disappointment over contract negotiations that threaten workers' retirement plans. Meanwhile, Columbia, South Carolina, hosted its 46th annual Veterans Day Parade, attracting hundreds who honored those who served, with heartfelt connections made between veterans. Contrasting this celebration, Columbia University faced a student-led protest rebranding Veterans Day as 'Martyrs Day' to critique U.S. military actions, which drew condemnation from veterans and supporters. Student veterans organized a counter-demonstration to emphasize their pride and gratitude for service members, aiming to overshadow the protest. The events reflect a broader societal discourse on the meaning of military service and the complexities surrounding the observance of Veterans Day.