The New York Times reports today on efforts by Chinese nationals studying in the United States to rebut what they consider “biased” Western portrayals of their homeland.

The article recalls a number of recent Tibet-related incidents in which Chinese students angrily disputed characterizations of the conflict via e-mail and in demonstrations, sometimes turning to violent language and threats.

“I believe in democracy,” one student told the Times, “but I can’t stand for someone to criticize my country using biased ways. You are wearing Chinese clothes and you are using Chinese goods.”

The article also notes that Chinese students’ occasionally threatening outbursts put American universities in an awkward position, particularly if those institutions have or are working to build partnerships with the Chinese government. —Catherine Rampell