US

New Illinois Law Deals a Blow to Westboro Military Protesters

New Illinois Law Further Restricts Westboro Military ProtestsST. LOUIS (The Blaze/AP) — A victory for mourning families or an assault on free speech?

Members of an anti-gay fundamentalist group known for their protests of military funerals will have to stay a bit farther away from such services under a measure Gov. Pat Quinn signed into law Sunday as the Illinois State Fair observed its Veterans Day.

In contrast with the shouting members of the Topeka, Kan.-based Westboro Baptist Church who often engage in outside funerals, Quinn quietly signed off on the “Let Them Rest In Peace Act,” which pushes protestors back another 100 feet to 300 feet — the equivalent of a football field’s length — at military funerals. Protests remain banned 30 minutes before and after funeral services.

A Westboro member labeled the new law as unconstitutional and said the church would continue its protests as it fights the laws in court.

“They can make [the ban distance] 100 miles, and it changes exactly nothing,” said Margie Phelps, a lawyer and the daughter of Westboro pastor Fred Phelps. “You all are delusional if you think you’re going to win this one.”

New Illinois Law Further Restricts Westboro Military Protests“Every family has a fundamental right to conduct a funeral with reverence and dignity,” said Quinn, who as the state’s lieutenant governor in 2006 stumped for the previous version of the law, which set the protest boundary at 200 feet away.

The new law “ensures that the families of those who have given their lives for our country can grieve without harassment. It is our duty to honor their sacrifice by ensuring they are remembered with respect and solemnity,” Quinn said.

The legislation is the latest passed by state lawmakers intent on stopping or at least blunting the protests. The Illinois chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union opposed it, and it comes after the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in March that found Westboro’s protests are constitutionally protected free speech. All but one justice sided with Westboro, which for years has stirred outrage with raucous demonstrations contending God is punishing the military for the nation’s tolerance of homosexuality. Here’s more on the epic court battle:

In that case, as in many other protests, the Westboro members — largely Fred Phelps’ family — held crudely worded signs with provocative messages.

Chief Justice John Roberts, in his opinion for the court, wrote that the First Amendment protects “even hurtful speech on public issues to ensure that we do not stifle public debate.”

Margie Phelps, who argued the case at the Supreme Court, said Sunday that Westboro would continue challenging such laws, “and once we get a favorable ruling we’ll challenge more.” It seems this battle will certainly be a long one.

Comments (184)

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  • Lover of America
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:37pm

    Remember, these people are all related. How? Not sure I want to know.

    Report Post »  
    • ozchambers
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:43pm

      I think this is a reasonable law as it is spelled out. I am a believer in free speech and I think this does not truly represent a threat to free speech. A funeral deserves respect. I would think this should be true no matter how reprehensible the person was who is being buried. Keep in mind. There was already a ban on the protestors at a distance. All that changed was the length.

      Report Post » ozchambers  
    • peaches1
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 5:39pm

      We sure are getting a lot inbreds in our society today.

      Report Post »  
    • pavepaws
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 5:42pm

      Free speech is fine, down the street.

      Report Post »  
    • stheide1
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 6:21pm

      I thought they were all inbreads. I agree with you fully and am upset that they insult the baptist’s and also have church in there name.

      Report Post » stheide1  
    • SlimnRanger
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 6:51pm

      You ask how they are related? Father/daughter, brother/sister,Uncle,niece and so forth,inbreeding does alot of damange to the brain

      Report Post »  
    • the hawk
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 8:21pm

      IF The price of sin is death, then everyone deserves a respectfull funeral………………………..R.I.P. ! ! !

      Report Post »  
    • Taquoshi
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 9:00pm

      You might find this cached page on Phelps interesting.

      http://www.biographicon.com/view/el3ll

      He’s been on the fringe for a long – long time.

      Report Post » Taquoshi  
    • StonyBurk
      Posted on August 16, 2011 at 6:52am

      The Phelps whelps are delusional if they believe they or their “useful idiots” are glorifying God by their stupid /noxious protests. Those who foment divisions and discord are not to tolerated but cut off.When I hear that insane clown circus doing anything that edifies -that builds up the believer then I might reconsider–but repentance requires –as does all of Christianity fruits worthy of the endeavor.

      Report Post »  
    • Southernguy
      Posted on August 16, 2011 at 7:57am

      Kind of reminds of that scary movie: Wrong Turn ;)

      Report Post » Southernguy  
    • Bluebonnet
      Posted on August 16, 2011 at 11:24am

      No way these people are Christians. If anything, they are agitators with inbred thinking. Not Christians.

      Report Post »  
    • jweaver0268
      Posted on August 16, 2011 at 12:30pm

      It’s simple Lover Of America…they are all related due to inbreeding. While I am a firm believer in the sanctity of our constitutional rights….My question is..why can you be arrested for yelling “FIRE” in a crowded movie theater but these ******** can do what they do and it is covered by “Free Speach”? If they want to have the luxury of having that right without being arrested then anyone else should have the luxury and/or right to stomp there asses everytime they show up to a funeral.

      Report Post »  
    • canuck44
      Posted on August 16, 2011 at 8:37pm

      The correct solution is to ensure their is a do-nut tasting convention each time they choose to show up spewing their hatred and a ban on video cameras within a half mile of any funeral is enforced. It might take the police a half hour or so to arrive on the scene if these folks experience some unexpected slips and falls.

      Report Post »  
    • Ready2Rumble
      Posted on August 16, 2011 at 8:51pm

      Actually Slim, most of that “church” is interrelated. I believe his congregation is made up of 75 people who are all relatives of some sort; it’s probably a tax dodge.

      BTW, has anyone seen Fast Freddy Felps at any of these “protests”? Notice that he sends women and children to do his dirty work. If he did the dirty work in person, he might get the hell kicked out of him – and for very good reason. To me, what his inbred family does amounts to fighting words, not free speech. The fact that none of his inbred family have been accosted by those grieving the loss of our nation’s finest, speaks volumes for the character of whom the inbreds mock.

      Another thing that seems odd is the absence of the pink mafia. These folks will come down like a hammer on those who sign anti-gay marriage ballot initiatives, but they seem to be a bit quiet when it comes to Fast Freddy Felps. It’s almost like the silence from the NOW gang when Sarah Palin was being run through the mud in 2008. Anyone else hear crickets???? Anyone smell a rat?

      Bottom line: Fast Freddy is a coward and, dare I say, a bit of a projectionist (no, he doesn’t work at a theater). Someone with this amount of hatred is surely hiding something, aren’t they? Could it be that Fast Freddy likes to hang out at truck stops in a mini skirt and fishnet stockings? Is he a secret toe-tapper in the men’s room? Oh, maybe that’s give the pink mafia is MIA.

      Never mind….

      Report Post » Ready2Rumble  
    • Curioso
      Posted on August 16, 2011 at 10:56pm

      I would be interested to know who is funding their court battles. They can be expensive. I think there are less then 50 members in their church.
      Just Curious.

      Report Post »  
    • Phoenixsoulfire
      Posted on August 17, 2011 at 10:50am

      They can have their free speech but no one said they have to be given the right to do it at funerals like the one mayor did was have them protest across town of the funeral lol

      Report Post »  
  • Jim in Houston
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:36pm

    Finally Quinn did something that was right! Maybe when he is jailed he can share a cell with the Westboro trash.

    Report Post »  
  • One Man Progressive Wrecking Crew
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:35pm

    See if you could subtract Chicago and a couple other cities from the equation Illinois is actually a very ‘red’ state. It‘s all the illegals and mouli’s in Chicago that drag the state down into a third world zoo habitat.

    Report Post » One Man Progressive Wrecking Crew  
    • NHwinter
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 5:18pm

      We’ll all be third world if the socialists and Obama have their way.

      Report Post » NHwinter  
    • SlantwiseDave
      Posted on August 16, 2011 at 12:29am

      Your use of the term “mouli” renders your comment null and void. I think it is despicable that anyone, ANYONE here uses terms like that. When you speak like that, you become one of them, spewing filth and garbage from your mouth like some kind of verbal diarrhea. We are conservatives, we are supposed to be the intelligent ones, so act like it. We are better than that. We have the truth on our side. We don’t need to resort to name calling, slandering, racist insults, etc. the way the left does.

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    • outthere
      Posted on August 18, 2011 at 1:26am

      @SlantwiseDave– What’s “Mouli”? Seriously. I’m not familiar with the term as a racial slur. My only reference to that term is that it’s some sort of kitchen appliance… a grater if I’m not mistaken. Please enlighten. Thanks! G

      Report Post » outthere  
  • looking4hope
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:34pm

    “The flag should never be used as wearing apparel”
    At the very least police should order them to properly fly the American flag.

    Report Post »  
    • Jaycen
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 5:31pm

      There are no laws respecting the flying or proper handling of the flag, so you could take your own property down, stomp on it, wipe with it and hang it back on the pole upside down and on fire if you so choose.

      All the “rules” regarding the flag are just that, RULES. You have no legal right to demand anything of another citizen in terms of flying the flag.

      I happen to agree with your sentiment, though. I follow the guidelines for proper flag display, etc. I‘m just saying there’s nothing a cop could do about it.

      Report Post » Jaycen  
  • moreteaplease
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:33pm

    These people make me sick. This thing about freedom of speech is being so blown out proportion that it’s stupid and it makes them look stupid. Freedom of speech does not mean you can cause civil disobedience or go on a character assignation rant and make your self look like a damned fool out in public. Freedom of speech is to be used with responsibility and common sense.

    I have the right to shoot a gun ( in the proper environment ) but If I don’t practice gun safety then I become a danger to myself and everyone around me and therefore should not be handling a gun.

    The vile stuff that these people spew is no different than a wayward bullet. Please believe me folks, these are not the actions of a Christian…not by a country mile.

    Report Post » moreteaplease  
    • Navyveteran
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 6:53pm

      I couldn’t disagree with you more. Our nation was founded on non-violent civil disobedience remember the tea party in Boston? In fact that is the very reason for Jefferson writing the Decleration of Independence. I hate the actions of these ppl more than you because I served in the military and it sickens me to no end to see these protesters at the grave sites of our fallen heroes. However, we can’t keep picking and choosing who has the right of free speech this is why we are losing our Constitutional rights today. We either defend everyone’s right of free speech or there will be a day where no one will have free speech. I rather defend these sicko’s free speech so someday I want to or groups that I actually believe in protest and will have that right as well.

      Report Post »  
    • UTSheepDog
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 10:44pm

      The question is not free speech. They are free to say whaterver they want. The question is location. Does a family (any family) have a reasonable expectation that they can bury a family member with dignity without hearing hateful protests from a bunch of creeps? I think they do and I think it applies to everyone. For instance, a convicted child rapist / murderer (one of the worst labels I can think of at the moment). Does his family have the right to bury him with respect? I believe they do. THE CONSTITUTION GUARANTEES THE RIGHT TO SAY WHAT YOU WANT. NOT THE RIGHT TO AN AUDIENCE.

      Report Post »  
    • Navyveteran
      Posted on August 16, 2011 at 10:18am

      UTSheepdog, man I feel you, really I don‘t want to defend these sicko’s I actually hate it, however, the picking of groups who are allowed to have freedoms of speech and freedom of peacefully assembling is covered in the 1st Amendment is not ours to make. In fact no man has that right! This is how we get to this point in the country that we are in now. The progressives have successfully picked and chose which ppl or groups can or can not excercise their freedoms. I am a defender of freedom even if they are the lowest form of excrement there is. If freedom lovers start picking and choosing who gets to express and use their unalienable rights given by our Creator then we are no worse than the progressives that still practice this type of injustice.

      If the family doesn‘t want these sicko’s at the cemetaries they don’t release that information. This information should be covered under the privacy act if not, WE the PEOPLE should pressure our Congress to add funerals to be coverd under the privacy act. Go this route and not one person or groups Amendment rights are violated, and I don‘t have to defend these sicko’s right to a peaceful assembly and free speech issues.

      Report Post »  
    • Texas Sheepdog
      Posted on August 16, 2011 at 1:19pm

      I’m with you, NavyVeteran – that’s where the whole “Living Constitution” lie came from: Progressives wanting to pick and choose who enjoys Constitutional freedoms and who doesn’t. I, too, am a Veteran, and I find the Westboro bunch despicable as Americans, and a total charade as Christians. But I have to defend their Freedom of Speech because if I curtail theirs, someone later can curtail mine the same way.
      The Patriot Guard Riders have the right idea: the Westboro Whackos can protest all they want – behind the strong, silent backs of Patriots, who honor the fallen and shield the mourners, while refusing to dignify such hate with a response.
      To use a favorite Progressive word, “marginalize” them. Like spoiled brats, when they continually find their temper-tantrums accomplish nothing, they won’t go on throwing fits.
      But don’t limit their First Amendment Right, because THAT will bite all of us badly. As we give up our Freedoms, we place more and more power into the hands of our enemies, making it nearly impossible to regain what we’ve lost.

      Report Post »  
  • Anonymous T. Irrelevant
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:31pm

    Westboro Baptist Church is the Christian Taliban that Encinom mentioned in another post.

    Report Post » Anonymous T. Irrelevant  
    • Jim in Houston
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:33pm

      These Cretans can’t spell Christian, much less behave like one. They are some of the most despicable people on the face of the earth!

      Report Post »  
    • sonofjohn3
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:38pm

      If I were attending one of these funerals where these commies were protesting, I‘m not sure I could refrain from walking over and knocking someone’s head off. I know that would be wrong also but it sure would make me feel better.

      Report Post »  
    • MidWestMom
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 5:31pm

      I have a family member who has lived in Topeka all their life and personally knows people who have stood up to the Phelps and were attacked by the full brunt of the Phelps machine.

      The WBC has bought & sold city & state officials for decades. They’ve used intimidation, lies, illegally accessed personal information, threats to family members and more to attack anyone who gets in their way. They have threatened and committed physical violence & property damage against many people who oppose them. They will sue anyone who reports them and anyone who exercises their own right to free speech to speak out against them just to put those folks thru the expense and trauma of a trial.

      Fred Phelps was disbarred in Kansas for repeated acts of perjury.
      Some of the Phelps’ children became lawyers and they have been fined by the courts for the same thing.

      Several of the Phelps’ children are estranged from the family – many escaping as soon as they turned 18. They have told of physical & mental abuse to their mother & all the children. Police reports verify their stories. Social Services was also instructed to conduct several visits to the home over the years.

      The man & his so-called church (comprised almost entirely of his family members, their spouses & children) are vile, hateful, bitter & insane individuals. And they will go to any length to further their hateful agenda.

      Yes they have the right to free speech but others have the right to be protected from the

      Report Post »  
    • PeachyinGA
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 5:35pm

      Thank Goodness we have superior citizens like the Patriot Guard Riders who volunteer to run interference for the grieving military families. I have been to a funeral where they came the night before and the day of the funeral. Makes me even prouder to be an American.

      Report Post » PeachyinGA  
    • MidWestMom
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 5:46pm

      Yes the Patriot Guard are a blessing and have protected many families from the vileness of the WBC. Also many communities have run them off by using the same tactics employed by the Phelps. Residents show up hours before an event, lining miles of public property effectively choking off any WBC protest. It’s really hard to get yourself & your propaganda on the news when you’re miles away.

      Report Post »  
    • Taquoshi
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 8:51pm

      to SonofJohn3 -

      Although I share your sentiment, I have heard that Margie Phelps is hyperviligant in terms of suing people who get too close to them. One time in Tulsa, OK, the tires on their vehicles were slashed.

      http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?subjectid=11&articleid=20101114_11_A12_CUTLIN105145

      They also had veteran Ryan Newell, a double amputee, arrested for stalking them.

      http://www.pitch.com/plog/archives/2010/12/08/ryan-newell-double-amputee-war-vet-accused-of-stalking-westboro-baptist-church-members

      So it is best not to mess with these suit crazy people who hate everyone. They are a sick, sick family. The day Fred Phelps dies, I have a feeling plenty of people will be on hand to wave “bye-bye”.

      Report Post » Taquoshi  
    • SlantwiseDave
      Posted on August 16, 2011 at 12:32am

      The “cretans” can’t spell christian……. and Jim in Houston can’t spell cretins. Just remember, let he who is without sin cast the first stone.

      Report Post »  
  • voicecheck1
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:30pm

    These people gotta go ^

    Report Post »  
  • mrsmileyface
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:28pm

    I have to agree that hatefull speech is still free speech…..but you can make them hate 100 miles away from any funeral by making statues. If I dont have to hear you…you dont exist. So I say it changes everything. The westboro idiots can chant hate 100 miles away and I can have my peace at an honor guard funeral.

    Report Post » mrsmileyface  
  • southernORcobra
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:26pm

    got a way to solve this some big guys with bats teach them freedom isn’t free

    Report Post »  
    • romadave
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 5:31pm

      like the kind you find in caves or the kind you find behind a trucker’s seat? Fruit / vampire? or Louisville?

      Report Post »  
  • RavenGlenn
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:26pm

    While I agree on striking some laws down on grounds of free speech…but what about harrassment laws? Why can’t we specifically hit such things?

    If someone hangs out in front of my house, holding signs like theirs, you don‘t think Philadelphia Police wouldn’t come tell them to get the hell out of there? I guarantee you they would. They would be disrupting the peace and harrassing.

    Report Post »  
    • fcbs46
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:42pm

      Sorry you are wrong they might come but they could not force them away from your house. It just works this way. They might come haul you away for threatening them though, if you so much as told them you were going to spray water on them.

      Report Post »  
    • MidWestMom
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 5:40pm

      The police can send them on their way or make them move if they are on private property, blocking access to public property or operating without proper permits. Unfortunately the Phelps (many of them lawyers) are very, very careful to stay within the bounds of the laws. If you succeed in routing them (there have been a few instances) they will attack you 100% harder. Lawsuits, threats etc

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  • dave928
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:25pm

    Why each and every one of these FOOLS haven’t had the ever-lovin’ CRAP beaten out of them by some of the families that they harass is beyond me. Ain’t nobody above a good beat-down. These people are the poster children for the “You deserve a good ass-beating for doing stupid stuff”.

    Report Post »  
    • NightWriter
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 5:19pm

      I’ve always felt the same way about our Freedom of Speech.
      Our Constitution gives them the Right to ‘protest peacefully’ and even to burn and/or disrespect our beautiful flag.
      Our Soldiers fight and die to maintain this freedom.
      What makes me mad is this: Where‘s my ’right’ to beat the cr@p out of them?
      Stupid is NOT illegal… but I think it should be!

      Report Post »  
  • welovetheUSA
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:24pm

    Hate speech is always an issue……..we see lots of that in the media today.

    Report Post » welovetheUSA  
  • whatthecrazy
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:22pm

    How do these people call themselves christian im so pissed to think they even feel the need to say such crap to these people who have lost a hero (loved one friend etc).They need to mind their on damn buisness and go back to being called Satanic worshippers because they sure as hell are not CHRISTAINS

    Report Post »  
    • BonnieBlueFlag
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:50pm

      If I ever happen to meet any of the Westboro Baptist Church I will thank them for trying to save souls. I will respectfully tell them that I disagree with their approach, but I thank them for trying to win souls for Jesus.

      Every time we as a nation spit at them and shout hateful things to them, they are more convinced that they are right in their methods. The Bible teaches that the world is filled with evil, evil they are trying to preach against, but every time “the world” opposes them it just cements their ideology. Maybe that’s what you people want: someone to hate. But if you really want Christian kindness then you will be kind to these people as well. They think they are in the heart of Soddom, and sometimes they seem to be right.

      Let’s SHOW them that there are still real Christians in the world who love God.

      You see them as hating the soldiers, they see themselves as standing outside Soddom with a sign that says “Thank God for raining sulfur.” The two are not *so* different. They seek “righteousness” and the more liberal Christians seek to love one another. Jesus commands BOTH. See it from their side; take some criticism and offer an example of love. If everyone did that, they would just go away.

      Also, to all those saying they are “stupid” and can’t spell, etc.; most of them are lawyers and are not stupid in the slightest.

      Last, I would NEVER be as judgmental as the Westboro folks, which is why I don’t judge them now.

      Report Post » BonnieBlueFlag  
    • MidWestMom
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 6:25pm

      @ BonnieBlueFlag

      So you think it’s ok for so-called Christians to preach hate?
      And what about those signs they carry saying women with breast cancer “deserved it”?
      And what about those signs they carry saying dead children “deserved it”?
      (yes they have carried those in protests)

      Funny, I don’t remember reading that Christ advocated & encouraged hatred in His name.

      Report Post »  
    • omni
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 7:53pm

      All the indicators are there to identify this group as a self serving cult. They are simply using the banner of “Baptist” as cover for their outrageous acts. Baptists are about salvation, not anarchy. There are apparantly progressives out there who are anxious to use this and other socially disruptive groups to contribute to the chaos they crave. Stop the cash and this group would fold quickly.

      Report Post »  
    • BonnieBlueFlag
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 10:37pm

      @Midwest Mom

      What you call “preaching hate” others might call righteous rebuke. Have you ever read a Bible? There are no “love-ins“ or ”drum circles.” Jesus was filled with righteous rage at the money-changers in the Temple. *You* might call *that* hate.

      Please explain to me what separates our “tolerant” society from Sodom and Gamorrah? The only thing that separates us is that we live under the New Covenent of Christ’s death on the cross. But Jesus states plainly that He did not come to abolish the law, meaning we are still expected to follow the Old Testament rules.

      In short, yes, I think it’s okay for them to “preach hate” because that is just your subjective definition of it. They have a different definition of what they are doing. And, ironically, most of the comments here and reactions to this church in general are extremely hateful. But that’s fine, right? Actually, yes it is. We can disagree with the Westboro Baptist Church and with each other and not curse at or spit at each other. It’s totally possible.

      Be an EXAMPLE of what you want OTHERS to be. Don’t like “hateful” rhetoric? Then don’t use it! That sends a much stronger message than being a giant hypocrite.

      Report Post » BonnieBlueFlag  
    • MidWestMom
      Posted on August 16, 2011 at 11:41am

      Yes, I have read my bible. I read it daily.

      Jesus was full of righteous rage at the money-changers but He never said we should demonize & hate them. He only condemned their actions. The WBC demonizes & hates the people and their loved ones, not just the sin they protest against. They do not follow the teachings to hate the sin, open ones heart to the sinner and use love bring them to God.

      They do not spread the Gospel or God’s love as Jesus taught us to do. They’ve stated they have no forgiveness for anyone who disagrees with them. Show me teachings in the Bible to back that up. Their so-called ministry is used only revile others – not to lovingly invite others to accept Jesus into their hearts. In all the video clips have you ever heard one of them humbly express a desire for all to come to God or that they are praying for God’s forgiveness of anyone? It’s never happened. They only spout hate, self-righteousness & arrogant condemnations.

      Of course we can disagree with the WBC and each other but I’d really like to see you try to sell them on that idea. They don’t believe it and won’t believe it. It’s that simple. As for “cursing & spitting” at someone – they literally do that. I’ve seen it. Such a loving way to bring others to Christ don’t you think?

      If you’d taken the time to read my comments you would see I did not use hateful rhetoric. I merely stated facts that I can back up and one single sentence stating my p

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    • MidWestMom
      Posted on August 16, 2011 at 11:44am

      my personal opinion

      Report Post »  
    • schmite123oh
      Posted on August 16, 2011 at 12:07pm

      you did just fine midwest mom. Bonnie, I’m not sure why you would condone this churches acts, clearly unbiblical, and objectively speaking the money changers reference of jesus’ acts. About how much of the new testament focused on that story? How much of the new testament focuses on forgiveness, repentance, peace, and love? i think if you are objective, you will see clearly. The bible does not contradict, follwo the commenments, love your neighbor and love your enemy, its easy to focus on excuses for our actions by referencing the money changers. May God Bless.

      Report Post »  
    • BonnieBlueFlag
      Posted on August 16, 2011 at 7:40pm

      I said from the beginning that I would like to tell them that I DISAGREE with their methods for trying to spread the Word of the Bible. But I would like to show them kindness as well. That‘s it and that’s all. I disagree with them but I am supposed to love my enemy am I not?

      The Westboros have declared me and the rest of us “others” their enemy, which is fine, but I must love my enemy. All I am saying is that MAYBE a little love and kindness and patience would go a long way in taking the sting out of their words. I truly believe if we all just said, “Thank you, brothers and sisters for what you *trying* to do” that they would just go away. They are getting off on this conflict, so stop helping them.

      I DO NOT condone their actions, I only state the truth that every story has two sides. They see their side differently than I see their side. As long as they do not break the law we should just be kind to them and basically ignore them. If everyone did this THEY WOULD BE QUIET.

      Stop letting these folks “get your goat.” That‘s all I’m saying. I repeat, YET AGAIN, that I disagree with them. I think they are lost in a sad way of life like so many others, but you and I do not know whether they will be sitting in Heaven in the end or not! We cannot judge and we do not know. Some people say that Pat Robertson “preaches hate.“ Some lost souls claim the Bible itself ”preaches hate.” Let’s set the example and prove them wrong.

      Report Post » BonnieBlueFlag  
  • Captain Crunch
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:19pm

    Crackpots deceived by a false teacher with no compassion, no love, no truth. I wonder if they care for their neighbors in need. Do they support missions? Do they empathise with those who are in pain and hurting? They have earned their reputation and their reward. Disgusting!
    And I used to be a believer in Jesus who sympathised and said I understood them. Obvously I’ve had a change of heart.

    Report Post »  
    • techengineer11
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:30pm

      I agree with your first sentence but I’d be inclined to give these people or any people as much liberty and lead way as possible to make their statement.

      If the Gov’t gets a precedent which prohibits speech or assembly under certain conditions then the door is opened.. It actually already has been opened but it appears they desire to kick the door down. Please don’t be mislead into thinking that this issue is primarily about the concerns of our Military personnel. It’s not.

      This case is huge and it has huge implications.. That’s why the Media keeps putting these disgusting loons on TV… They realize so many find them repulsive and will therefore join the chorus in demanding that their Liberties be squashed!

      Let’s continue to stand up for Liberty and Freedom no matter the cost in America.

      Report Post » techengineer11  
    • Captain Crunch
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 5:09pm

      @techengineer11

      I agree with you. If we silence them then the next ones to be silenced will be you and me. I hate their tactics. If I wanted to make a statement about our nation and the morality of what we are doing I assure you I could find a better and more effective way of doing it than harrassing mourners at funerals. They are making enemies of everyday people. Repentenance on a national level begins with the individual. They are driving people away from the message they are trying to get across by their cold hearted tactics.

      Report Post »  
  • mikedy
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:19pm

    I only wish they had their “church” in my town so we could do to them what they do to others. Turn the tables on them to see how they like it. I do not see this law as unconstitutional. They can protest just a little further away. Hate speech is free speech but a person freedom to conduct a private service in peace is also a right we have. Unwanted noise can be labeled pollution! So holler away, just do it from down the street a bit.

    Report Post »  
  • olddog
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:19pm

    There is a difference between Free Speech and Harassment. These people mean to harass for the attention, Period.

    Report Post » olddog  
  • concealled9mms
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:19pm

    Why is the westboro church still standing

    Report Post »  
    • DrFrost
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:29pm

      I’m usually very conservative when it comes to free speech… but this is ridiculous. Nothing good is going to come out of demonstrating against war and soldiers at a funeral when a greiving family is in the middle of burying their son/daughter. That’s an extremely private situation and they have no right to intrude.

      Report Post »  
  • REDWOMAN521
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:18pm

    @shirelover they are entitled to free speach, and no one is saying they cannot protest. I disagree with thier protests but have no problem with the law which only states they must now speack thier mind from farther away. I do however agree with you’re second statement.

    Oh the irony, excersicing your rights to protest only to slander and offend those who died to ensure your rights are protected. Tsk Tsk! I am a devot Christian (Lutheran actually) and I find these radical Christians to be disgusting. We are supposed to be a teaching and forgiving people.

    Report Post »  
  • erik3tb
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:18pm

    This falls into the same category as yelling FIRE in a crowded building. Just because you have the right to do something, doesn’t me you should. The protesters have the right to protest, but they need to be responsible and not do so. This type of law helps to impose that responsibility on those that refuse to act responsible.

    I would like to see those who suffer because of the protests be able to sue that so-called church for damages.

    Report Post »  
  • bdwatcher
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:17pm

    These lunatics might have the right of free speech, but all of us have the right not to be offended as so many laws and regulations that come down that prohibit our free speech. You can not say prayer in church, you can not have the 10 commandments on state or federal property. This religious group is forcing their religious beliefs upon us… I am offended and they should be charged with disorderly conduct and offensive behavior. Their offensive behavior, speech, and deliberate religious referendum should be just as unconstitutional as some other laws we have to abide by. Burying your loved one is not the same as walking down the street and hearing some of this BS from the street corner.

    Report Post » bdwatcher  
  • JMorcan
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:14pm

    It’s clearly a violation of free speech. On the other hand, shouting on the street might be considered disorderly conduct by a police officer, and grounds for arrest. Where do you draw the line?

    Report Post » JMorcan  
    • U.S. Navy Veteran
      Posted on August 16, 2011 at 1:48pm

      The line’s got to be drawn somewhere. You can’t yell “FIRE!!” in a crowded theater, and you can’t scream “BOMB!!” at 35,000 feet, but I must admit if you screamed “ALLAH AKBAR!!” at 35,000 feet, you’d probably get away with it; you might even get a medal…

      This Westboro Baptist fiasco is driving me nuts! Didn’t the U.S. Supreme Court rule 8 to 1 in favor of the Westboro Baptists? What drives me nuts is the double standard. If you’re protesting the American Soldier, that’s O.K. But God forbid should you protest a protected minority…

      Report Post » U.S. Navy Veteran  
  • TheObserver
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:11pm

    There is a fine line between Freedom of Speech and harassment. It’s within the individuals right to conduct funeral services without the hindrance of an organization whose goal is to disrupt a gathering for political gain. They can cry violation all they want. The actions of the Westboro Baptist Church is a violation of the Constitution and they know it. But their using said Constitution as a weapon to continue to spread hate. Personally I’m surprised that no one has recognized their actions as hate speech.

    The rules and regulations that are set in place in this country apply to everybody who are American citizens. No one is exempt, and no one is above what our Founding Fathers envisioned.

    Report Post » TheObserver  
    • techengineer11
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:23pm

      No such thing as hate speech. Only Liberals who do not support the 1st amendment to the US Constitution. Next you‘ll be telling people they can’t assemble unless the Gov’t grants them a permit right? lol

      I hope that you are not a serious Conservative. Careful in your effort to tear down what took 100s if not 1000s of years to construct. We have a good thing here so let’s keep it that way.

      Report Post » techengineer11  
    • Islesfordian
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:38pm

      The supreme court was wrong to decide that a “protest” designed to inflict personal distress on others is protected. Deliberate harrassment has never been protected, not should it be. Disturbing the Peace has always been a charge meant to maintain a semblance of decency and order in public. The 1st amendment is not a licence for anarchy.

      There is a difference between a conservative and an ideological libertarian.

      Report Post » Islesfordian  
    • MidWestMom
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 6:38pm

      @ Islesfordian

      Exactly.

      If they have the “right” to say & do the things they do then I have the right to stand on the sidewalk or funerals or weddings etc carrying signs that say “God hates ……… Fill in the blank with blacks, latinos, Catholics, Atheists, Liberals, children, women with breast cancer, the president etc etc etc.

      Just how long does anyone think my right to free speech would be supported and my “protest” would be allowed to continue? I’d be shut down & slapped with a lawsuit faster than I could pack my stuff and go home.

      Report Post »  
  • Better Dead Than Red
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:10pm

    Yes, hateful speech is still free speech. Okay- but does it reach a limit when their family members are in such a vulnerable state? These animals kick those who are grieving for the fallen.. their sons, daughters, parents, brothers and sisters. Is this an appropriate free speech argument? Of course not. There should be consequences- like crying “fire!!” in a crowded theater

    I hate to think that these people be there protesting the funerals of the Seal Team Six. God Bless our troops.

    Report Post » Better Dead Than Red  
  • LadyIzShy
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:07pm

    while i think what that so called church does and says is HORRID and they will answer to God for it I will protect thier right to say it, because if they cant say that who is next.. you ro I? I see nothing wrong with this new law as long as they can still protest

    Report Post » LadyIzShy  
  • shirelover
    Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:03pm

    I disagree with the new law, they are entitled to free speech. Having said that, it is well within our rights as citizens to prevent someone like these idiots from causing any more pain at a funeral. We should organize protests to stop the protests!

    Report Post » shirelover  
    • TheObserver
      Posted on August 15, 2011 at 4:18pm

      So, what your saying is it’s within an organizations rights to say whatever they want without limitations, but at the same time, there should be protests to stop protests? Isn’t that a contradiction?

      Simply put: it’s our right to hold gatherings and no one can stop that. What the Westboro Baptist Church is doing is intentionally violating the individuals rights, and use those same rights to protect themselves for their actions. This ruling its to protect the individuals rights while preventing future harassment.

      Report Post » TheObserver  
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