Protestor's trial continued

CHAPEL HILL The group interrupted the talk by Tom Tancredo on campus April 14. Six others face similar charges for protesting former US Representative Virgil Goode's speech a week later. Both men favor stricter immigration policies.

Rising senior Haley Koch took part.

"It's really important to know that protest is something that is a vital part of our culture," she said.

The protests sparked national debate when Tancredo was unable to finish what he came to say.

"I've received death threats and a lot of hate," said Koch.

But she's also found support.

"I think she was exercising her first amendment right," offered one supporter.

The court appearance Monday prompted a rally in their support on the courthouse steps. Demonstrators want the charges dropped, but the case was continued for now.

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