For those that are unfamiliar with the WBC, they are from Topeka, Kansas, and run around the country protesting at schools and soldiers funerals. They were going to protest at the Holocaust museum here in town after leaving the HS. They carry signs like "God hates fags" and "Antichrist Obama." I participated in the counter protest with about 6 other members of the Rhode Island Atheist Society. The signs of the counter protest said "Teach Love not Hate," "WBC needs a hug," "Our Big Signs are Better" "We Support East Providence Students" and "LOL," among others. There were 5 to 8 WBC and maybe 80-100 counter protesters, and lots of cops. The WBC is reported to make money to fund their operations by instigating violence, then suing. They sure didn't get a fight from us!
I think their ability to incite an anger response has gone down. Maybe they still are able to do it at funerals. I don't understand the psychology of people like that. I showed up to support the students and also, I don't get angry quick so thought I might be able to help out there. But no one was angry. The students had a great time! lol. Below are a few pics, starting with one of the WBC.
The rest of the pictures are of the counter protesters...
11 comments:
they came around here recently, and really it is almost comedic watching them
when i heard they were coming, i had to watch some videos, and i found one of a tv reporter (male bodied) messing with one of the men, and hitting on him...its hillarious
it is all a big family, they are all related, and i just dont get it
but you are def. right when you say that fighting them physically is what fuels their fire and their ignorance, because one of the main women is a lawyer and they are sue happy!
The WBC are a mess.
I didn't notice until after I published the pics, the older lady in the second pic holding a small gay pride flag. She's not taking her eyes off the WBC people either.
The things people do when they get it in their heads to do protests like this. The fact the WBC is spreading hate just to fill their bank accounts is deplorable.
scary.
Sometimes I really wonder about groups..It is really frightening.
To me, this world is going upside down..I never understand all this hate. I believe in certain things and won't change my mind, but would never force my views on you..
Not the American way.
Thanks Rosebud.
I don't understand the hate either.
Wow never even heard of these people but then I make as strong an effort as possible to shield myself from this kind of stuff most of the time, because I too am all about love & acceptance. I would have been standing right next to you had I been there! Did you hold a sign?
What sort of true Christians would hold a sign saying "God Hates..."? Not me, that's for sure.
yes Jenn. my sign wasn't as good as the others! lol. mine said "who stole our pistachios?" its in reference to a prior counter protest (don't know where) where a counter protesters held signs like that (nonsense signs) and the WBC thought it gay speak. i thought i'd continue with the confusion.
Suldog, the WBC are a class unto themselves. i don't think anyone confuses them with other Christians. The only reason i brought up the group i showed up with, the atheists, is because that's what happened. i don't mean to denigrate christianity in general.
It's admirable that the EPHS has a gay straight student alliance. Open Education not hate is always a higher road.
Awaiting their visit on the 16th, you can read my post here...
http://www.jewelrybytarabiz.blogspot.com
Blech on hatemongers:(
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