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March 2nd, 2011
04:15 PM ET
Supreme Court Ruling
"Speech is powerful. It can stir people to action, move them to tears of both joy and sorrow, and - as it did here - inflict great pain. On the facts before us, we cannot react to that pain by punishing the speaker."
Chief Justice John Roberts wrote these words in a Supreme Court decision on Wednesday. We'd like to know what you think of the story and the opinion of the court.
Carl Azuz, Anchor
I don't really have an opinion on the court ruling or on the story
john roberts meens dont go back to the strrugle you had in the past.
I agree with that quote. Speech is powerful; it can stir people to action, etc. This quote is so true, speaking of something can trigger an emotion, something.
will i think i just out rageous when people are debating on whether they should be able to agree or not agree with those citizens well PEOPLE OF COURT NEED TO WAKE UP AND SEE THECHANGE OUR EARTH IS COMING TO....
Since he is saying that speech can bring emotions, it is not our fault if our emotions blame the speaker. (No offense to him, of course.)
I think that chief justice John Roberts is right , & that speech is always a powerful thing . It makes us react in different ways & different emotions . Most of the time we want to react in a way in which is very inapropiate or not suitable .
This story brings so many things to mind. I can see both sides of this debate. God ment for men and women to be one with unity, but God also says that we are to accept everyone and to love one another. Some of the things that the protesters wrote are ment to rise a reaction but others are just hurtful and crule. I understand that they have a right to say what they believe but to say that God killed the gays in war for a reason after they served our country, in my book is uncalled for.
Church members. At a funeral. Telling the tearful family that their (innocent) son who made the ultimate sacrifice deserved it. The same church members who couldn't do this or even go to their choice of church without these men and women giving up their lives. What has the world come to?
I am just sooo glad that I live in America!! I couldn't survive without the right of free speech!! I also think that words are very powerful and that whatever you says is important. Americans should learn how to use words better and know how what they say can effect people.
I just wish that Americans could get along better, not argue, and be united as one nation.
i think that these speeches are so important and has a powerful force of just what i like to say big words
I think it's wrong for the speaker to get punished even though they may make the family sad or mad they still have freedom of speech
they do not have the right at all leave them alone people
i belive that john robert is corret and that speech does have the power t make a diffrence
John Roberts is right. Speech can have a big impact on us, good or not. If the words spoken are true, the speaker cannot be blamed for any sorrow created.
I think its morbid that protesters would say that they think the soliders, who are risking their lives, deserve to die because they are fighting for a country tolerating homosexuality. As for the supreme court ruling, I think that Roberts didnt have a choice because according to the 1st amendment they are allowed to protest, and just because he ruled in favor of them that doesnt mean he agrees with them.
Speech really can be powerful, especially if it is something hurtful on someone's feelings. God's intentions of making humankind were to have everyone live in peace, without things like hurtful remarks. But we obviously haven't been able to do just that, and this is an example of it. I agree that there is no way to punish someone that made a hurtful remark, because it would be a matter of word against word, and some people have the advantge over others, like connections with someone with a lot of say in things.
He means that sometimes words speak louder than action and sometimes action speaks louder than words. When it comes to what your fighting for, you always want to make people notice.
The Supreme Court ruling, along with the protestors' actions, were uncalled for. It is unnecessary to approve of the deaths of the American soldiers who sacrifice their lives to keep America free and to also approve of the appalling actions taken by the protestors. The protestors need to understand that there is absolutely nothing wrong with homosexuality and to stop spreading views that hurt America.
I think that people have their own rights to do what they wish, how they wish. If someone is homosexual, they can't change that. We aren't supposed to tell people what they can and cannot do. I think that all of those people should just let it be . . . and mind their own business.
This story brings so many things to mind. I can see both sides of this debate.
He is absolutely right. Which words hurt people vary from person to person, and you cannot blame the speaker when they say something that is hurtful to someone, at least as a crime.
i think the westboro church has no say in if the U.s.a is morally flawed if people want to be gay then so be it but it doesn't mean the people fighting for our country should die. or to hurt the feelings of the soilder that dieds family
I agree that speach is powerful, but saying that it's GOOD that people are dead is going overboard, in my opinion. I respect the church's rights,but,honestly, I don't think that they should protest at someone's funeral,or make judgements about people just because theay are supposedly "gay".
I agree with the quote to but I also don't have opinion on the story
I think that he is right. Sometimes we do act in ways that we regret and should not have. But if it is not on purpose and the speech was bad or a REALLY big deal then so what.
I agree with the Supreme Court Ruling, but certainly do not agree with the actions that the protesters made. The protesters had a freedom of speech, yes, but they were showing hate at a funeral, an emotional, tribute to a brave young man who served his country. I certainly believe that God wouldn't like that. I believe that they haven't done anything wrong, law wise, but have commited something very wrong, moral wise.
If this is about gay people then they have to face God, and it doesn't matter if they are doing the right thing or not (which they are doing the wrong thing). We have no right to judge. And back to the story: he is right. We can't blame the speaker for speaking the truth. Even as we are not supposed to judge people it is the truth. Gay people have to answer to God not us. Men and women are supposed to be together, and not any other way.
I have no love for homosexual people, but protesting that we want the very soldiers that are fighting for our freedom to be killed because they may or may not be homosexual, then going to a soldier's funeral and protesting there, during a very painful and emotional time for the parents? Even after they told the media that their son was not homosexual? That is downright rude, disrespectful, and these people NEED to be reprimanded. There is a difference between exercising your freedom of speech and totally dishonoring your country, and God. By protesting, you are telling God that you don't trust His judgement and you don't care what He thinks.
Everyone has equal rights, I do agree with freedom of speech, but protesting when a troop has a funeral is just disrespectful to the family and friends of the lost one.
I agree, the speach is powerful & this no go to war because your "gay" is stupid, they can't help it, they were born like that.
On some level I guess I agree with the quote. But not the ruling. It is so easy for certain people to say yes I agree with the ruling, yes they have the right, until they are put in the position where their mother, father, sister or brother has been killed protecting ignorant people like that. And then ignorant people like that show up at the funeral basically spitting on the memory of the person who passed. Regardless gay, straight, bisexual, trisexual, pansexual, omnisexual or whatever it is wrong for anyone to protest any funeral.
I thought the Supreme Court would decide this way, and they are right. It's protected free speech no matter how offensive.
I learned long ago, that I am not responsible for someone's sexual preference. I am responsible however, how I react and respond to others.
The things I can't deal with, is if a person lies, cheats or steals.
Wayno
I agree that we all should be aloud to our own opinion, but there really is a point when you should have better tact. This is the definiton of
freedom of speech: right of citizens to express their opinions publicly without government interference, subject to laws against libel and incitement to violence. What they were doing was harassment. Behavior that threatens or torments somebody, especially persistently. I believe there is a very destinct difference.
Yes, you have the right to say whatever you want but you should know when to be sensitive. I think that it was a terrible decision to protest about homosexuality at a funeral. The protesters had a right, but it was an insensitive and rude thing to do. A funeral is where people are mourning: its a bad idea to sit there and say that God is punishing the dead person for being homosexual, which is something that they can't even control. So I guess I would summarize by quoting spiderman "with great power comes great responsibility". We have the power and right to speak out whenever we want/need. But we should know when it is an inoppurtune moment to say what you want to say. I'm not suggesting you don't say it: just save it for a better time when it can be better recieved. Although I feel terrible for the family of the soldier, I agree with the Supreme Court. They would have taken A LOT of heat from people if they had stifled free speach at all. In truth, the Supreme Court was tied by the Bill of Rights to allow the free speech. RIP soldier whose funeral was intruded on by protesters.
Soldiers sacrifice their lives half-way around the world for us. Why is it that when they die, church members protest at their funeral and claim that God had it in for the soldier, who is homosexual (something they can't even control!). I don't mean to spark a religion debate but one of the main teachings Jesus gave is "love your neighbor as yourself". If that is true, then why is a church protesting...it just seems ironic. But they do have a right to do it. To say that they don't would be incorrect. They have the physical right but they should know better than to protest against homosexuals at a funeral. It's morbid! Come on church! At least let the families mourn and heal a bit before you go shouting at them about how their dead child deserved to die!!! That's just cruel!
I agree that speech is powerful and it can stir people to action etc, but in my opinion I think we have to punish the speaker who say or wrote a harmful words, even it couldn't react the pain.
This story really hits home being in a military family. I really think this is the most disrespectful thing thing that a church can do. The court ruling I think in my mind was totally wrong. Less than 1% of the population serves in uniform and westboro church coming and interrupting their funerals is 100% disrespectful and really makes me mad. If chief justice John Roberts son had died in action and this church came and protested at his funeral how would he react and think of this differently?
I can see both sides of this debate. However, I think the most important thing for us to do is to accept our differences.
Speech IS powerful, extremely powerful, I couldn't agree more on that part, however how you punish the speaker varies with each case.
I like this quote it tells us how court goes when new Ideas are to be shared! He's right it can mix your emotions either high or low!
If this is what America has come to, I would flee to Canada. One person has selflessly given his life for us to be free and do what we want, and the people are protesting at his FUNERAL!!! This is outrageous, let's throw them into Afghanistan and see what they would do....
Freedom of speech is supposed to be something used to express yourself, but if you believe in god and go to someone's funeral to harass them while they are dead that is just disrespectful and i dont agree with that. You cannot do that just because you believe that the person is gay it's just not right.
This ruling should not have been made. While the first amendment protects your freedom of speech and your right to protest, it does not protect you from commiting hate crimes, which is what these "protests" truly are.
Similarly, although the KKK are allowed to have their beliefs, you would not legally allow a KKK group to protest infront of an all black church durring it's service, because that is a hate crime.
Hate crimes are not and should never be allowed under the first amendment, and the supreme court ruling should be reversed.
I agree with the supreme court ruling but I also agree that the church should have not interfered with the funeral.
well if these people say that they are Christians then they should show it and not tell soldiers that died protecting their country that gods hates them because god doesn't hate any body on the contrary. also we should show kindness even if what we think their doing is wrong because in the bible its say love your neighbor as your self, but they aren't showing that right now.
I agree with the Supreme Court's ruling in this case. Americans have the right to express there opinions and we can't pick and choose when and where that applies. However, I disagree with the church in this matter. While the Bible does condemn homosexuality, it also tells us that God does not hate anyone.... he loves us all. And those soldiers whose deaths they are celebrating also died for the church's freedoms of religion and speech.
I strongly agree with Chief Justice John Roberts words that "Speech is powerful,ect" but in this case I think it was really unrespectful for these people of, the Westboro Baptist Church to protest outside of this poor military guys funeral because if he was gay or not who cares Its his life and in the end they should have some respect because this poor gentelmen was in the military. Basiclly fighten for them too and they should have had some respect for his family because they where probably in alot of pain, and i do respect the members of the church but i think they just went a little to far.
I agree with Chief Justice John Roberts because i think you should not be able to punish someone because of there free-minded thoughts and opinions, but on the other side it could be a good debate because depending on what some people say it can be token offensively and that could make people react in a violent way. Gay or not people are equal human beings and deserve the same respect as you would want for yourself.
Even if he wasn't a soldier; no one should b able to disrupt a funeral. Regardless if the church protesters were a reasonable distance away, the family should have the respect to mourn their loss in peace.
Those protesters are so stupid. These brave men and women are putting their lives on the line, and the church is being COMPLETELY ungrateful. They should try to put themselves in the soldiers shoes and see from the other side of the veiw.
I feel that it was a poor choice of the Supreme Court because, freedom of speech is good but where the church went with it was over the line. If I where in the fathers shoes, I would feel furiouse.
The church claims to be doing this because God is punishing our country for our tolerance of homosexuality. I believe that this church is tarnishing the image of God by hiding behind their faith to execute their beliefs.
As a proud Christian and American, I believe that this church is completly ignorant. They are protesting at funerals of people who go out to defend Americans including them. Their opinion that God is killing soilders because of America accepting gay people is completly and utterly wrong. If they are "Christian" they would know that God so loved the world that he gave his only son that WHOSOEVER believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life God is love and they are contradicting their belifs. If Christianity is about love they are poorly representing their beliefs. The Supreme Court was absoulutly correct with their verdict. Our constitution grants us freedom of speech. If their verdict was anything different it would have been politicaly incorrect. Sadly some people just do not know that dooesnt mean we should lose conciseness of greiving families.For the church it is just sad that they're so blinded by ignorance that they've lost the vision of christianity. They should know regardless of the constitution that this disrespect is wrong on so many levels. I believe they have lost all sense of humanity and regard. Where is the love ???
I belive that we need somthing to protecting other people from the virbal abuse. If were not aloud to hurt any body physicaly why do you let us hurt other people emotionaly. I belive no man or woman shouldnt abuse someone else with there words because that can be very hurtful to someone. Sometimes emotional abuse can hurt worst than physical abuse so why do we do it.
The church protesters should have been sued for the horrible things they said, in fact, they should close down the church, if those protesters where at a funeral for one of your loved ones, what would you do?
I think it is absolutely pathetic that the people from this church are going to people's funerals, and protesting. I understand their side and opinion, but a funeral? That's a little much. Funerals, are an important part of the healing process after a loved one has died. So, I don't think it is appropriate for them to interupt this process.
I know people have the right to freedom of speech but its highly disrespectful and insulting to the families for a group of people to go to a funeral of a service member that died for this country to help protect that right and then to say that the reason their son or daughter died was because god is punishing the military and the country because of gays.
i dont think that this is right at all these people died for our freedom and our country and they are taking this for granted. They shouldn't be allowed to go to these funerals and protest, it makes the family hurt more then they already are. Personaly i think they shouldn't be allowed to protest at these peoples funerals.
I think you have the right to speak but I don't think it's okay to say mean stuff like calling people gay or being racist.
I really dont have an opinion on the stroy or the opinion .
They do have freedom of speech but it's not cool to say something like that to a family that their son had just died.
Speech is powerful but sometimes it's not okay.
I think that gay should have the same rights
I THINK WHAT THEY ARE SAYING IS WRONG but it is their own oppinion .
I think it is their own choice to be aginst gays. It is part of their religion that I agree with. The thing I don't agree with is that they want people to die I also do not think that they just want somebody to die.
I think dissrupting a funiral like that is messed up, and those people that did that should get sued for everything they have.
First of all, where in the Bible does it say "God Hates You"? If people from a CHURCH are saying that God hates people, then they obviously don't know God. Especially because the Bible also states God is love, not hate. The church did have a right to protest, but I think its personal and rude to be telling people at a memorial service that God hates them.
i think that they shouldnt of been at the funeral because its a sign of direspect. i understand that they were protesting gays in the war but he wasnt gay so why would they protest there? its not fair to his family when they were trying to attend their son or brothers funeral. its direspectful
I dont think it was right to interupt the funeral because it was none of there buisness and everyone has there rights to be whatever sexuallity they want to be.
That church had no right disrupting the funral it dosen't matter what your sexuality is
As much as I don't like the evils of Fred Phelps and his eccentric cronies, I am thankful for the Supreme Court's decision. Our founding fathers clearly stated in the First Amendment of the Constitution that we are to protect freedom of speech regardless of if it is demeaning to other individuals.
the speech was big but this should be handled different in the future
I think it is true that everyone has a right to express his ideas and publicly shows his beliefs, but he certainly has responsibility for what he saids. Even if we should respect everyone's freedom to speak, ignoring other's emotions would be somewhat stupid...Maybe one could say the same thing in a more subtle and kind way.
I think the the Westboro Church is morally corrupt and needs to reasses it's values. They have a passion for attention, not for the benefit of our country. Citizens of America have freedom of speech, but they also have a right to privacy.
This is not right for the gays to do such things.If they want to make gay marriage legal then they should stop showing there freedom of speech. When prop 8 comes back there not going to show respect to them.
Im in favor of the court's ruling because the church has a right to voice its message. I also agree with what the church is saying because this is a country founded on Christian beliefs and homosexuality is in contradiction with that.
i disagree because homosexuals have a life too. Homosexual are people too. Why you ask,funerals are private because people are sad because their relative died
This is an outrage! I think the court's ruling is wrong.
They had no right to be protesting there and ruin a funeral.
A funeral is supposed to be a peaceful event and it's supposed to allow people to grieve over the person in private.
Freedom of Speech shouldn't excuse something so hateful like what the protesters were saying to the people.
They showed no respect at all.
They should have the freedom of speech but it has gone a little bit to far by doing it at a funeral.
I think homosexuallity is wrong but there is no need to disrupt someones funeral.
I agree with the quote. The church shouldnt have protested at the funeral. THE BIBLE SAYS THOU SHALL NOT JUDGE. Besides if someone is gay, bisexual or lesbian, it shouldnt bother you as long as they arent trying to force themselfs on you.
Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again....
Matthew 7:1-6
† The supreme Court allowed the protesters to arrive and protest at a funeral about homosexuality The Supreme court is out of hand and the protesters have disgusted me about how there actions affected the family of that soldier. Clearly appaling
I think it is wrong and even though we have feedom of speech I think the government should put more restrictions on it because speech is powerful and can be hurtful.
the church people should have taken in the fact that if there were no soldiers there might not be a church like that were the can believe the things they want
I do agree with the ruling, that they do have the right of freedom of speech. But what they are saying to the church i think is going to far.
Funerals are not places to use your voice for such a matter. If you have a problem go somewhere else and protest. Don't interupt a family's time of greaving. I think it was wrong for the court to rule the way they did.
I think what Westboro is doing is absolutely sick. The families of the soldiers who have died are suffering and they think it's okay to go and tell them that they died because God hates them? Because God doesn't except homosexuality, their children, their brothers and sisters had to die? It's repulsive. Those people are in mourning. Hasn't Westboro ever heard of "respecting the dead"?
My brother is now enlisted in the military and if that happened at his funeral, I would not go quietly. Freedom of speech, right?
The speaker has every right to be punished. It is completely disrespectful to interrupt a funeral, because that soldier has a family.The speaker just brought more sorrow and anger to family and friends at the funeral. I do not agree with the opinions of the Supreme Court, the speakers should be punished.
The Westboro Baptist Church is able to say what they want in the United States. Our first ammendment allows for that. I think it is disgusting that they hide behind the flag they drag on the ground. If these people dislike our country so much, why don't they leave? I would be happy to see them go. The "church" came to our school to protest the Gay Straight alliance and the experience was nothing short of depressing and disturbing. Their protest signs were too graphic! Their message of hate still resonates.
It is a basic tenet of life that no one can make you feel anyway that you do not want to feel. I do not agree with these people or what they are doing however I will support our constitutional right to free speech.
The people who protest at funerals are a little to much i would get it if they protested not at funerals but somewhere else.
Speech does have the impact to set of emotions but the good kind of emotions (unless the speech is bad!!) I disagree about punishing the speaker though!
The church may have had the right to express their opinion, but saying that the troops death is right, is going way to far.
Yes homosexuality is a problem in the world but i don't belive that god is punishing us just because of that
I think this court ruling is a travesty. I am all for free speech and protesting, but a funeral is reserved for respecting the deceased. A funeral is not a place to protest at all.
The church has the right to protest, but saying that the troops deaths are RIGHT is going way too far. Plus protesting in front of the family at the funeral shows a lack of respect and compassion for them.
I think this court ruling is a travesty. I am all for free speech and protesting, but a funeral should be reserved for people respecting the deceased. A funeral is not a place to protest what you believe.
i think that robert is right this speech brings alot of things to my mind
I understand what the court is saying and i get what the others are saying but (depending on religion) isn't wishing/hoping someone is dead is a sin too? Why do a sin to try and "stop" someone who you think is sinning too? You should never wish someone is dead no matter what the person says or does. You should love everyone equally, no matter of gender, religion, opinion, etc. A funeral is a place to wish someone onto a good after life and for the family to celebrate that persons life. Why would you ruin that for them? You would be angry if someone came to your family funeral and started protesting too. I understand if you think someone is doing something wrong but that doesn't mean you have the right to be mean to that person and protest that persons feelings. Its just rude. I think it should be illegal to protest near a funeral.
It is not for the Baptist church to judge and decide who goes to hell.The bible says that it is not our job to judge each other because one day, we're going to be judged the way we judged others.The church assumed that the soldiers are fighting for only gay rights,but they're really fighting for all of our rights.
Is he taking away our freedom of speech?
Speech is indeed a powerful thing, and so it must be used carefully. For the church members to say such horrible things was completely uncalled for, and morally wrong. These soldiers, these brave men and women, are giving up their lives for this country, so that people like the church members have the right to say these slanderous things. And seriously, why would anyone dare say those terrible things? The reason our country is so great, to a degree, is because it is tolerant. But why would we need to be tolerant anyway? Being gay is not wrong, and Christianity is not the only religion in this country. So to presume that God is punishing our soldiers for fighting and drying for everyone's rights is not only disrespectful of the soldiers, but of every person who is not a Christian, including myself. I do agree that everyone does have the right to exercise their right of free speech, but that does not mean they should use it in such a horrible way.
The quote is true, we have the right to speech. But if the privacy is not respected, then this right doesn't make any sense morally.
I think even if it is law these people cant do this because they are harrassing the dead soliders family witch is also aginst the law.
This law is so bad, the family has to have the respect of thier family members. and other people shouldnt be there, unless thier invited. What do you think they would say if they went to thier familys funeral.
I think that people should just keep their opinions to themselves. If they don't like gays then leave them alone.
This story brings so many things to mind. I can see both sides of this debate. God ment for men and women to be one with unity, but God also says that we are to accept everyone and to love one another. Some of the things that the protesters wrote are ment to rise a reaction but others are just hurtful and cruel. I understand that they have a right to say what they believe but to say that God killed the gays in war for a reason after they served our country.
I strongly dissagree with the courts ruling. Funerals are families mourning a death of a loved one, not for ignorant protestors.
I agree that people have a freedom of speech but thats pretty messed up that you say that stuff about the soilders cause the truth is that everyday there fighting and saving your world so they can say it or not but if that was my funeral I garinte that if you sayed that my family would be yelling at you.
personally i think we should let them protest as long as it doesnt turn into violance. we should respect the first amendment
I think that they should just mind their own buissness its not their family and if it were their family they wouldnt want anyone doing that to their funiral
I think it is really not fair to gays or bisexual. It is their decision and really it's a free country and not anyones choice to control who somebody else is attracted too.
I think they should respect the family because they don't know what they feel about a family member of them. So that is a bad thing that the court is letting them make fun of them.
I agree that you should have freedom of speech. Although protesting at a persons funeral should not be allowed.
They have a freedom of speech but on the other hand they have the right to state whether they're gay, so it's kind of a lose-lose situation.
I think that what the church did was completely wrong, yes people have the freedom of speech but you don't do that at a funeral. The american troop was not homosexual so they had no right to do that at his funeral..
I think its not right for people on the outside to have protest when people is haveing a funeral because, you spending your last momment with your dead son and it's post to be in peace not in rudeness and disrepect. Thats very rude to do and very wrong.
I think those church members are completely wrong for their actions. They have no right to force their views on homosexuality upon the entire U.S. & the families who lost loved ones. Besides Christians are taught to be accepting of everyone and only God can judge people and their actions.
I think no one should fighting because fisrt of all its a free country and second of all there just saying there freedom speach. I still think that is wrong but who are we to tell them what to do.
This case ruling is ridiculous. The soldiers that you're shaming at funerals died protecting your "freedom of speech." It isn't there fault that America's morals have hit rock bottom. That church is completely out of line.
I think that when a familys son/daughter has died, serving the country, that they should be able to have a nice funeral, being able to mourn in peace. People that have no part in the funeral shouldn't be there, especially saying that the person was meant to die. I agree with the court in some parts, but not to the extreme of interrupting a funeral.
people have the right to say what they want, but should have enough respect to not protest making tons of noise during the burial of a soldier due to their beliefs.
I think it's wrong because if they are so called church going people they should let the people that are homosexual live their life and they shouldn't say god is punishing us because of people like them , if god should punish us he should punish us for all the violence around the world.
I love gays! I am one in fact, and for them to say they hate gays is so rude, I feel hurt. They should leave the soldier and his family alone.
I think that all church's have there rules but going to someones funeral protesting is just not right. Every single person that goes and protest should think how the family must be feeling for losing someone that gave there life for us.
I think the protesters should not be able to disturb a funeral while they are having a family moment with their deceased loved one. The protesters should be fined for disturbing the peace.
I think that the soldiers are fighting for the people who are protesting too so if they want to be free they need to mind there own business.
I believe that the supreme court ruling was unfair technically, because many people would get offended and already heated with a loved ones funeral. Thats why I believe that the supreme court should have ruled in favor of the other, no matter the protestors rights this is loved one of a family, riots and fights may occur.
I don't think it's right to have a protest at a funeral because it's time to be grieving and sharing the memory of the one you lost. Protesting at a funeral will be very rude on the protester behalf to even think about doing such a thing like that at a sorrowing time!!!!
I believe that the supreme courts decision was right, however I dont believe that the protestors should be at the funeral and that they should mind there own buissnes. They should ask themselves if they would want someone to protest at their sons funerals when they die for something they believe in.
In my opinion i thought that the Sepreme Court did a job in protesting. I really think it will make people think more, then not to think at all. But then again if the Supreme Court was going to do that i dont think it should have been done at a funeral. That's a place where everybody is sad and not happy.
Everyone has a side to their story but if the protester dont have a member of their family involved they shouldnt say anything.
I am a Christian and I know for a fact that this church is telling lies. I know God and I know that he does not hate anyone. He hates the sin, but loves the sinner. God is filled with so much love for us that we cannot measure it. This church is sinning and no matter what they say, true Christians will know the truth of God's love for sinners. I don't appreciate that this church is giving a bad name to believers. God loves all of us, no matter what sin we battle with whether it be homosexuality or lying to an entire nation.
It was freedom of speech. But I think that it was just the wrong time and place and super disrespectful. To the family and the fact that God had made this earth and everything on it so why are they judging Gods work?
Well, first of all, the founders of our country intended for the right of freedom of speech to ensure people the privilege to tell their government what they thought of their rulings. In this case, the Westboro Baptist Church was abusing that right and using it to bring others down and, as John Roberts said, "inflict much pain". God didn't create humans to be homosexual, he made them to serve and worship Him, the one and only Lord. By holding up nasty signs, that church is not only discouraging others, but it's proving that they aren't real Christians because they obviously aren't serving their Creator by loving others. Just because someone is serving in the military, doesn't mean that they support homosexuality. Also, everyone sins, whether it's being gay or just being disrespectful to a teacher; it's part of a person's sinful nature, which humans have had since Adam and Eve disobeyed God in the Garden of Eden. Anyways, the Westboro Baptist Church is committing a sin as well by lying about God's love for His people (saying things such as "God hates you" and "You deserve to go to hell"), so they have no right to condemn military members for their so called "sin" of supporting our country through a military service that allows gay members.
what these protesters are doing and saying! is not right this needs to stop.. soldiers are fighting for our country's freedom... no matter what there sexuality a soldier is a soldier..
i am a soldier in the army and what these protesters are doing is not right there needs to be a stop to this... they should not be allowed to protest anywhere near a soldiers funeral... what there saying is ridiculous have these people forgot who is fighting for there freedom....
people shouldnt judge other people. I think that people have the right to their own oppinions of life and who they like.
The people from Westboro followed the law by expressing their free speech from the proper distance and in a non-threatening, albeit, rude way. They should be left alone.
i think there should be a limit to how the speech is if you push it to far or not there should be a limit
In my opinion people have the right to speak what they want but they should also respect families right to privacy and not protest around a Vet.s funeral.
When you look at this case, its hard not to feel sorry for the people affected. However, you must also take into account the law that was established for the freedom of speech. I can vouch for the judges in the fact that they had a hard to decision to make. they had to disconnect from their moral selves and go by written law. Cudos to them...
The first amendment guarantees us the right to say whatever we want, even if what we want to say will hurt someone else. These people who are protesting truly believe that they are right, and who are we to tell them they are wrong? While it is mean and inconsiderate to put the families of the dead through even more suffering, the Supreme Court made the decision that made the most sense.
Personally, I am against the protesters because when you look at it the soldiers are fighting for OUR freedom and without them who knows what this world would be like. We really can't fault them though, because the 1st Amendment from the Bill of Rights is freedom of speech.
i guess i can agree with the decision, but some people ought to know better than to yell out this kinda of stuff by now. this sort of protest is usually just for attention, which they have succeeded in getting. i think if they were serious about this, they would have found a more rational way to talk about it instead of shouting about it near a church.
I think that people should have their right to freedom of speech, but it crosses the line when its something that has nothing to do with them. The only thing that it is effecting is other people and their surroundings and other people should stay out of it.
The church visited my school once. They stood outside all day and screamed out constantly about how evil Homosexuality is. Any man, woman or child with any amount of respect or care for others would not ever do something so malicious. The Westboro church is no better than Nazi's, When they marched through a Jewish Town. It's like the Skokie case. I understand the court's decision, and respect the court ruling, but I won't forgive the Westboro Baptist Church. They've taken it too far.
I think that people should have the right to be whatever they want to be, and though I definitely think that being gay is wrong, and never plan to be gay, it is their decision. Besides, the soldiers of the USA's arm don't fight just for gay people or just for anyone else. They fight for us all, and they should be respected.
sorry, not a church, i meant someone's funeral. (lol typo)
They should like god because he dosn'nt like them back and he dosn't like to be treated like that
The freedom of speech is actually limited.It actually says that what you say can't be a lie and with no proof of these soldiers being homosexual they can;t say much.The church was out of bounds.
i believe that the way the supreme court made a big mistake. thats like forming a government, and letting anybody in. the government wouldnt allow it, so why should we be any different? if i was the judge, i wouldve allowed them to sew and vote in their favor.
I think freedom of speech and religion is important but when someone dies it is important to give them their privacy and if you believe one thing that doesnt me they dont believe in an other thing so they shouldnt have done anything
it wasn't fair te church had no right to come and do that they should just leave them alone and keep their belifes to themselves.
I think that people have there on choice of what gender that they like i think that if a guy likes a guy it is their choice not the other peoples choice just like if a girl likes another girl it is their choice not ours.It is also very rude if they interupt a funeral. If you had a son or daughter and he or she died and they liked their same gender and people came and interupted the funeral saying the stuff about freedom of speech wouldn't you get mad.I would get mad because they are interupting your last time to ever see them again.
Thats unfair.THey were making fun of him because he DIED.Thats not right.Thats completely messed up.That is invasion of privacy, who cares if its their church.If the one who died was my son i would have done something i would have had ALL of my family members and hold signs outside of their church saying they will invade your privacy swich churches!!! And this part is for you Carl do you make the puns or does someone else make them??
I think that during a time of grief people should not be aloud to come in and rub that grief into their faces.By the way they are protesting many people being homosexual and if they are going to protest they should also protest agianst those who are bisexual!There are different people in the world and they should not have to suffer because of it.
I think it is so disrespectfull to interupt the poor mans funneral exspesuly if it is a man that served our country.
I think this is messed up
i think this is unfair because people have there own taste in their sex...and should be allowed to do whatever they want in their lifes...
I think that the supreme court ruled a bad decision. It is outrageous for people to be able to do such a bad thing like that. Its is unexcusable for that church to try and ruin funerals like that. They should not have anything against homosexual people unless they are physically bothering them. They are happy and they dont do anything to anyone, so they do not deserve this treatment. They should especially should not interrupt funerals where people are trying to honor dead soldiers, and family members. I wonder how they would feel if at their funeral, someone came in and completely ruined it and mortified their family.
i don't think this is appropriate
That was so unfair. It isn't nice to go into a funeral, full of people who are so sad because someone they loved has died, and start being rude. I totally disagree with the supreme court's decsion. The church has right to disagree with gays, but they don't have the right to ruin someone's day that's already horrible.
I don't think those people should have the right to disrupt a funeral.Just because they think that it's a punishment from God.It's messed up.
I think that it is messed up about the court ruling
it wasn't fair the church had no right to come and do that they should just leave them alone and keep their belives to themselves.
I think that the people should have the right to have a funeral so that the people can let out their feelings.But they can't while people are disturbing them.
I think its unfair that they can interupt their funeral its not cool if they have something against homosexuals they should go stand up to one.
I don't think it was right for the Christians to go to the funeral and make signs that say that the soldiers deserve to die because of homosextuals, I also think that the people at the Funeral over reacted and should just ignore the Christians.
I think that is messed up if that is how they are then way do you have to put your coments in it. The church can think what they want I strongly diagree with the court. the church does not have to go and say bad things and they should keep it to themself. they dont have to use there kids to say those things.
i think that what the church does is mess up because they don't have the right to disturbe privacy of others and their just people that DON'T HAVE ANY BUISSNESS AT THE FUNERAL .THTAS JUST MESS UP !!!!!!!!!
I think that what they did was awful and that they should have never done this to an innocent mourning family, however they should not be forced to stop because that would limit our first amendment to freedom of speech as long as it is not harmful. Then what is to stop people to not take it away altogether. Still there is no problem with being "gay", whether it is against your religion or not, they should be allowed to do what they choose.
I think the protestors had no right to protest at the Soldiers Funeral. It is not their choice in who a person likes. If they have no respect for the soldiers who fight for their lives and their freedom, but yet they STILL protest at this dead soldiers funeral. Who cares if they are gay or lesbian, the soldiers are risking their lives for our freedom.
i think its wronge
I agree with the speech but when they say it's good they died is too much. I don't think they have any rights to show up at a funeral and say that they're gay.
I think that the supreme court ruling is very much Horrid. That is very dumb and just uncalled for? There should be a law for those type of retarted things.
I believe that freedom of speech is going overboard it's great that people can say what they want but there is a point when anough is anough.To juge someone at there funeral is wrong god made every one equal and i believe the people that juge wont be going to heaven there selves.
The Church had a right but to outburst in the middle of the funeral. But it is a god givin' right to have your own Religon if it was not your own Religon and your Sexuality. The church had NO right to Mock his Sexuality
Hi my name is Brian and my comment is that all this is dumb and just uncalled for why would you walk in and yell out or march in a funeral just because of your beliefs. What ever happen to keepin to yourself,I think that this supreme ruling is horrid and very wrong.Hope you read my comment thank you for listening.
Man what is worng with people, we are the country with the most freedom. We should keep it that way. I f they start rioting about that it will be bad.
WE HAVE THE RIGHT TO LIVE FREE AND BELIEVE WHAT WE WANT TOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
God isn't punishing America and our soldiers shouldn't die.
I think that it is okay for the church to protest. They have the right to protest from the 1st amendment. The church didn't directly physically hurt anyone. Their protest hurt the Snyder's family morally and emotionally.
THAT WAS MESSED UP!!!
the thing about the soldiers is not nice.
Why the people in the baptist chrch in kans being so maen to homosexuals just because there homosexuals doset mean there not human and they live .
I strongly dis agery with your rulling. He died and they didn't even let him have a nice funerle.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with homosexuality, in my opinion. Why would someone protest on something that is not happening to them? Why don't they mind their own business? Those veterans risked their lives for us and they are being judged for their sexuality? Why don't people just go on with their lives and if they don't like it, just ignore it?! It is very wrong to wish someone to go to hell, so they are doing wrong too. The Supreme Court had their freedom of speech and they are just stating their opinions. Although some remarks are to be kept to themselves.
I believe that the the church has the right to protest because in America, we do have the right to free speech. But, I think that there needs to be a limitation to what they say. They shoudn't be able to hold up signs that say terrible things when a funeral is going on. The family of the boy is hurting and what they are saying is going too far.
I agree with the Supreme Court's ruling, because I say people should be allowed to say what they want, even if it's hurtful. Otherwise, it is true censorship.
I think that ruling is wrong .I think that people can chose whatever they want and should do what they want in their own life.
I think it is unfair to treat a guy who has been serving our country. He was risking his life for us and people are treating him awful.
Well I think its right to say that, but it did offend people. I think that the protester could have been a little bit nicer, especially during a funeral!
I doesn’t matter on what you are I depends on what you do and what you do for your country.
I think that the protesters are dumb because if he’s gay or not he fought for there country they should respect that.
I think the Supreme Court should have made the church people guilty. I think this because they hurt a lot of people’s feelings and I think it wasn’t nice for them to come and protest. I also think that this kid fought in the Afghani war and he was out there with his life on the line so I think it was bad for the Supreme Court to pick the church rather than the funeral.
I don’t think that the protest were respectful they need to leave other people’s privacy alone and handle their own business not somebody else’s.
I think the ruling was wrong, I’m not someone who believes in homosexuality, but I am a catholic and seeing other religious people hold signs like that just disgraces God and everyone who believes in him. God says treat others as you want to be treated, if it was their child’s funeral do you think they would want people protesting.
I think that the Supreme Court needs to wake up and there should be some acceptions to the first amendment. The protestors are just disrespectful and they should have to pay a lot of money for pain and suffering. Also, it doesn’t matter how far away they were because obviously the people saw it and were hurt by it.
I think it’s not right for those people to be at any funerals because the parents and family members would like peace, and not people shouting from across the street them.
People should mind their own business because it’s not hurting them in any way. It is not their choice what other people do in their life.
I think that the ruling was wrong and it is not fair for the people who are serving our country.The people need all the privacy that they need.
i recognize free speech but the protesters probably overlooked that fact that those soldiers are fighting for the very right they're using aganist the soldiers.
I think the ruling is wrong. The people interrupting a funeral makes me sick. Like the saying treat others the way you want to be treated, goes good with the protesting. So I think the court was wrong, I bet you would feel horrible if a family member died and people were saying mean things about them. But that is just my opinion.
I think the protesters were very disrespectful. The fallen soldier risked his own life to save the protesters lives, and they just treated him poorly. He isn’t even homosexual, and that personally doesn’t bother me if you are. I don’t believe the ruling was right, and I believe the protesters owe the family an apology.
Free speech is a gift from the people who started the country and from God. You can say what you want, but I think that if people tell protesters to leave, they should leave and be considerate of others around them.
I think that if people fight for our country they should have a rightful funeral. the protesters should not be protesting at a funeral because that is disrespectful. the protesters should not protest at peoples funerals cuz they fight for our country and if they didint fight for our country we would be dead ,=,e
i think the court ruled wrong. they aren't doing anything to the church. that man who died served the counrty and got killed trying to protect us and we protest about him being gay and in the military instead show pity or respect because wouldn't you like people to treat you that way.
The church should be blamed for violation of privacy. They had no right to protest something like this at a funeral. The one judge who was against the protesters, i'm with you on this one. I don't think those people have ever heard of the golden rule. If it were thier children's funeral would they prostest againt it just because he/she was fighting for other peoples' rights?
I believe that the church is being extremely disrespectful and completely contradicting Christian teachings. Even if they are not wrong legally, immorally they are very wrong.
I believed that the westbro church has no right to judge others because they has flaws as well as the next person. But I think it is wrong to protest at someone's funeral.
If that church had any moral values or HEARTS at all, and if they truly knew God, they wouldn't wave signs like "god hates you". That is ridiculous. I'm not even religious, but even I know that God doesn't "hate" ANYONE. Freedom of speech or not, we need to draw a line somewhere. Especially when the world has come to a "church" interfering with a memorial service.
Since we have the right to free speech here, the Church has the power do say whatever they would like. However, i believe it is disrespectful to do it at someones' funeral, especially somebody who served our country. Our military doesn't sign up to fight only for the homosexuals in the country, but for everybody. Also every country has homosexuals so why say God hates just our country? Especially when he loves everyone..
The church should be blamed for violation of privacy. They had no right to protest something like this at a funeral. The one judge who was against the protesters, I'm with you on this one. I don't think those people have ever heard of the golden rule. If it were thier children's funeral would they protest againt it just because he/she was fighting for other peoples' rights?
What the protesters did and said at the funerals was very disrespectful, yes; but, people do have freedom of speech. So legally, the Supreme Court made the right decision, although I do not agree.
I truly believe in freedom of speech and that it is a wonderful thing in this country. However, I do not agree with protesters being allowed to disrupt funerals. That is extremely disrespectful and completely uncalled for. The insensitivity of these acts is astounding, and in ways is humiliating to others who share the same religion.
I would say that i don t think that anybody should be able to go and interrupt a military funeral, because that for one is disrespectful to the family but at the time it is very disrespectful to the military. I fell like it doese'nt matter what or who the person is you should not be able to do that.
The church should be blamed for violation of privacy. They had no right to protest something like this at a funeral. The one judge who was against the protesters, i'm with you on this one. I don't think those people have ever heard of the golden rule. If it were thier children's funeral would they prostest against it just because he/she was fighting for other peoples' rights?
I agree with the first part of the quote, but I don't agree on the fact that you can't punish them. There needs to be some kind of thing to help people from taking there rights to doing something outrageous, rude, and un called for. Also though I understand that the first amendment gives people the freedom of speech, but there needs to be a limit somewhere, somehow. Letting it go on won't make it any better, people with start to fight back which is something we don't need.
I believe that a the bill of rights should not protect the completely disrespectful actions that this religious group demonstrated.
I believe that the church is being extremely hypocritical. You are supposed to treat people with the love and kindness that Jesus showed you by dying on the cross. I also believe that the supreme court should have done something different with this.
I agree with the quote but I also believe that people have the freedom of speech but I don’t think it should apply here. This family was obviously going through a rough time with the death of their son and that just made it worse. I personally don’t understand why the protesters are upset when a soldier died fighting for their country and them. Even if he was a homosexual they should not be protesting at a funeral or by a funeral of someone’s loved ones.
i don't think it was right at all for the church group to protest at a funeral, thats honestly disrespectful. how would any of you feel if your brother,son,dad ex. died and some protesters came and acted ignorant? its just selfish. even if it was the church's belifs. stay out of peoples buisness and mabey god's punishing us for JUDGING other human beings not because some of is diffrent. Respect diffrent people with diffrent belifs.
I agree with John Roberts comment. I also think that it was inappropiate for them to go to a funeral unannouced, also for the wrong reason. The group that did so, should be punished for privacy issues. The person that died was like his father said was not homosexual. In which going to his funeral like this was not something that had to do with the case that they were protesting.
i think that it is wrong for people to go in protest at someone funeral i mean someone just died in you go to they funeral in start yelling. if i was one of they family members i will be upset.
I believe that everybody has the right to freedom of speech, but there's a time and place for everything. I don't think it was right for the people from the church stating their opinion when the people were at a funeral and sad and miserable.
i think that is just wrong for some one to go to someone funeral in start yelling
I believe that the protesters had the right to speak their minds but, come on, at a man's funeral who fights for you and your country have some respect, and he wasn't even homosexual.
I think when people die from the military and the parents or family members have a funeral then. Well what if the parents don't want to tell so much information about their son/ daughter that had died. But who cares if they are different from others and they wanted to be gay or homosexual i mean that is their decision of what they want to do with their life but to me i don't care about that because people are so much different.
I think that the court should not let people join the military they shouldn't have that kind of stuff.
My opinion is they had no right to disrespect the family who is grieving. If it was your family member who just died you wouldn't want to be disrespected like that.
I really don't have an opinion on the court ruling on the story.
They don't have the right to just go in a funeral!
The people had a right to say what they said it doesn't matter if he has a problem with it. He's going to have to take care of it himself
The people had a right to say what they said it doesn't matter if he has a problem with it. He's going to have to take care of it himself
i think that the supreme court thingy mig is true and that people should have the right to speek
I think that was totally uncalled for. I believe in freedom in speech and i understand people have their opinions, but saying that its good for someone to be dead because they are homosexual is totally wrong. Especially when they were fighting for your country. God created people if he made them homosexual then why would you go against it? The church made an unruly choice and it probably left the family crushed.
This story brings so many things to mind. I can see both sides of this debate. God ment for men and women to be one with unity, but he also says that we are to accept everyone and to love one another. Some of the things that the protesters wrote are ment to rise a reaction but others are just hurtful and crule. I understand that they have a right.
I really don't have an opinion on the court ruling but i do think that people can be with who they want and people can do what they want. So the protesters can have an opinion even if it is hurtful they are just expressing their feelings about the situation.
My opinion is that the speaker does have a right to say those things, though sometimes they should kept to themselves because they wouldn't like it if someone said it to them. I know I wouldn't
I understand that you should believe in what you believe, but people have rights and privacy as well. I would believe that the quote may still be right though. Speech is still also a great way of doing what you truly believe in.
I think that they have all the right to do anything they want to do you can not stop people from saying what they want if that how they fell than they going to tell what they got to say
I agree with the quote but also I don't agree that they should be alowed to protest at someones funeral just because they do not agree with that person for being gay. Being Gay is not something that people should be able to protest against. If you are not gay then thats fine but you shouldn't be allowed to judge the people that are.
I think that the senator guy is right. And peple should not take offenses to everythoing that peopl say
I think that was totally uncalled for. I believe in freedom of speech and i understand people have their opinions, but saying that its good for someone to be dead because they are homosexual is totally wrong. Especially when they were fighting for your country. God created people, if he made them homosexual then why would you go against it? The church made an unruly choice and should at least ask for forgiveness from the family.
I think people have their own rights to do what they wish.
I think people have their own rights, if they choose to be homosexual, let them. It's their choice what they can do so people shouldn't protest at a funeral just because they don't like what someone else it. We should have freedom of speech but people should respect it better and not use it against privacy. John Roberts is absolutely right with his quote, but there should be limits as to what people do with that freedom of speech. Some people will ruin it by doing something just like the protesters at the church.
I think that the quote is wrong, if they say it to someone that they are friends with or something like that and it hurts their feelings than it is there fault for saying it. If they loose their friends for saying things that are rude than it is their faults for saying it, no one told them to say something mean to them, they just CHOOSE to to.
I do agree with the quote but people do not deserve to die for protecting their country if a part of the population is homosexual. I go to church but truly I think that church had no right to do such a thing. What if the person was not gay? Then the should not have protested against him for losing his life protecting his country if he was not homosexual.
i think that the speech is powerful but i don't think that it is good. also i think that i don't have much to do with the problem.
John Roberts says that whatever happened in the past happened in the past. It is in the future know forget what happened in the past. Don't struggle what you had in the past. Also they cannot changed if that person is homosexual you can't change what they are. That is how they are people should mind their own bussiness.
I strongly disagree with the church's decision to protest homosexuality at military funerals. while they DO have the freedom of speech, a funeral is considered a PRIVATE affair. i happen to be bisexual and take great offense to the comment that homosexuals should die. there are better things to work for, like getting homeless people off of the streets, and promoting peace and higher education.
When people are very disturbed by something, I do believe they should speak out for what they believe in. If we didn't have that rule some people would be living their life miserable because they will never be able to get there point across.
As the first amendment says we all have the right to freedom of speech.If people want to speak let them speak.Let them do what they may do best.Some people may have an answer but they do not speak up because maybe they are homosexual and are afraid people might put them down. So by having freedom of speech anyone should be able to speak their mind without being afraid.
i believe that they invaded that family's privacy and do not agree with the ruling at all. Also If it wasn't for those soldiers then those people wouldnt have the freedom of speech.
I think it is disrespectful to protest at a funeral for a guy who died for our country. These people are wrong and ill!!!
I think that it disrespectful to the soldier and the family members. Also because that man gave his life to defend this country and all he gets in return is spit in the face. You people who did that seriously need some major help.
If the Westboro Church calls itself a church, why are they making hurtful comments? I thought that a church was supposed help wrongdoers, not say that the soldiers of the country should die for what they did. With out soldiers there would be no freedom of speech, no choice of religion, and they might not have ever been born. Maybe you should check your morals Westboro.
This guy lost his life defending our country so we can have freedom of speech. If I died for my country I would want to have a peaceful funeral and not one that people are out side the church protesting.
I think that someone should have stepped in when all of the protesting was going on at the funeral and stopped it, because it doesn't make a difference if he is a soldier or not. A family shouldn't have to go through that on a day like that.
I think that the protesters shouldn’t be able to go to funerals of soldiers because it is not polite and they make the family even sadder.
I don't think they sould be able to say stuff like that.
I think that the protesters shouldn’t be able to go to funerals of soldiers because it is not polite and they make the family even sadder.
I don’t think it was right for them to protest about this at this person’s funeral. These people should stay out of their business. It doesn’t matter who he is or what he is he still fought for this country and he deserves good treatment!
The protestors shouldn’t have the right just come into a church during a funeral it’s a soldier that fought for our country. They should be respecting that.
I believe that the people that protested had every right to protest about homosexuality. First of all, they weren’t actually at the funeral, so you can’t infer that they were protesting against the dead person. Second, their signs didn’t say, “The dead person doesn’t deserve a funeral!” or anything like that. They said, “America is doomed!”
I think it was wrong for them to do the protesting arrowed that area they should have done it at a different location because it is so close to the funeral.
I think that the protesters shouldn’t have gone to his funeral and protested. Even though he served for our country doesn’t mean he believed in everything our country supports. As Mathew’s dad said he wasn’t bi, so they protesters had no reason to even be at the funeral. It was bad enough that Mathew’s dad had to deal with his son’s death and on top of that the protesters had to be there. I think that wasn’t fair for Mathew’s dad or family. I also think that the judges could have made an exception, because he served for our country.
I do not agree with the Supreme Court's ruling. I believe that it is totally ridiculous for these people to be able to say those kinds of things at a soldiers funeral. This soldier risked his live and died for what he believed in and that was defending his country, and they go in there and ruin it by saying those mean and cruel comments. What sickens me the most is when they blame all soldiers, it doesn't matter rather they are homosexual or not you do not do that kind of thing. When you see these men and women stomping on the American flag saying things like soldiers are better off dead, what kind of person does that? Really i think this whole thing is stupid. Why would you stand back and watch these people protest a soldiers funeral is what gets me why? Why? WHY? I really believe that the Supreme Court should reconsider this ruling, because how would they like if they died and these people would protest there funeraly? Ya exactly this should not be allowed and I am sickened that anyone could think these kinds of things and actually follow through with the protesting of soldiers funerals. This is totally ridiculous I honestly don't know what this world is coming to. This is what is condeming our Nation it is truly sickening.
The Freedom of speech is a right that we Americans pride oursleves in having. It was fought for, and gained with the stong perservenance of soldiers. Today people are using that right to slap our soliders in the face by prostesting at their funerals and saying their are happy an American is Dead. That is wrong. American soldiers are a strong emblem of the American people because we as a people have come together numerous times to defend what we have. They boast sign that say "God hates you" If they truly know anything of God, they would know that he hates no one.
The church may have the right to express their faith but it's not exactly right for them to say such things to a family that just lost their loved one in an ongoing war. They shouldn't say such things to a man that has died for their right for freedom.
I don’t think that it is good to have the freedom of speech in that instance because I think it is was wrong for the protesters to speak out at that family in time of such grief. But it is also good to have freedom of speech in other cases because then we can say something about our country that people in other countries would be punished for.
Speech is very intense. But, I think that it was wrong to protest at the man's funeral. They were going through a remorsful time and the last thing they needed was to be protested to.
I don’t think that they should have protested at the funeral because you are saying good bye to a friend or family member and I think that it should be peaceful not rampaged by protesters.
I thought that it was constitutionaly fair for the church to have their rights, but this makes me feel as though the Constitution is out-dated, and makes me wonder whether or not it should be our governing rule of law for our country.
I feel that it is immoral that protestors could honestly hold a sign at a funeral just because he was a soldier standing up for his country! Without the efforts of soldiers like him we would not have freedom of speech to rebel against such sexuality! Who are protesters to tell who or who not people can have relationships with! If they feel that they can think soley for themselves not other people! As for the Supreme Justice making protesters able to protest is morally wrong! It is disrespectful to the family and they are taking so much for granted! If people can honestly stoop that low they need to take a look at life differently! It's wrong and cold hearted, but obviously they need to get a LIFE!
i believe that this was a wrong judgement on the part of the protesters. if it was the protesters kid the wouldn't like it so don't do it. totally wrong. think before you act.
The people have no right to say who god loves, because God loves all his children.
holy crap no wonder why the world is goin to heck! they are over their fighting to keep us safe and that is how you treat em!
I believe that the ruling is fair but that the protesters shouldn't have been able to protest at a funneral. Especially not one of a man who gave his life for this country, for those people who so explicitly use their right to speak freely.
people should have the right to speak their mind, but they should also be reasonable. we should know when to stop; what to say, and what not to say.
I would have to agree thought i think what they did was wrong. As a christian i think that it was wrong because as i saw on some posters that on of them said "GOD HATES YOU". One thing that people don't seem to understand (mostly the RELIGIOUS ones) is that god doesn't hate anyone. Everyone is gods creation. He may not like the actions that we do but that does not change what he feels for us. If you are trying to make a point then they must be made through love. Leading Gods great example of love is the only way to show how he is the one true God.
I believe in exercising your religous beliefs. However, I also think that it was wrong for this church to protest at a funeral of a fallen soldier. He fought for this right and any decent human being should know better than to protest at anyones funeral, no matter their sexual chooses. They should think about how they would feel if that was their child. People now a days should think this way before acting. That is why there is the old saying, "think before you speak."
I think that the church should be charged because that hurts alot
I think that speech is very powerful but also when you think people dying is good that is just way to far no matter who it is.
I personally support the court ruling. even though it is sometimes hard to accept, freedom of speech is something universal to all Americans as a guaranteed right. we cannot simply take away the right when we don't like what's being said.
I believe the people who protested where wrong because they should not be protesting again gay people, especially when they have fought for our country. I also think that the supreme court is wrong for voting with the protesters. Shouldn't they be voting against the protesters who are disturbing the piece.
I do agree with the quote, but not with what the church group did. I personally find it morally wrong from them basically desecrating a funeral. Especially one of a person who gave their life for their freedom.
The military is here to help protect us. I think we should respect that, even if they are homosexual or not. They die for our country, then people accuse them for being gay? What is wrong with them!
i think if people are homosexual it doesnt make them any diff. they cant control it. some of them are born that way. so people shouldnt judge other peoples lives and mind there own buisness D;<
I think its not right to be doing that. If that were my son I would of got myself in trouble real fast.
I think that it isn't the soldiers fault they are gay and the parents that the kid died will be mad .
it is very wrong they shouldn't do this
I think that if you do not know the person who passed away, then you have no right to speak. You might say that they are homosexual when they are not; and that is not only making people sad and mad, it's making you look dumb. If you have nothing nice to say, don't say it at all.
I thought they should have been charged about that. And how do they know if thats what God wants...
I think that what the chruch was doing is very terrible, Because some people have the right to be gay, they are who they are.
Personally i think that people should keep to them selves. When something happend to the people you hate you are happy, but when you think about it, it is worse because someone else loved that person what if that was you relitave. what if people came to disrupt your funeral, would you be happy?
I belive that it is completely wrong to ' clap ' or celebrate at someones funeral. ESPECIALLY if that person fought for our country and died doing it! WHO CARES IF THEY ARE GAY OR NOT...! that does not mean you can disrespect them.
I agree with speach is powerful. But people in court need to see the change in life and except it... Believe the world is a wonderful place and it goes through phases and changes and we just all need tto except even if we like it or not its our world and we live in it.People are people and except who we are!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! LIVE WITH IT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Be happy for who we are!:D
I Believe they should be aloud to have free speech but shouldn't single out a man for being homosexual.
I think that it's not right to be doing that becuase if they were really christians they would know that god does not hate anyone and yes it's an abomination but it doesn't give them a reson to blame peolpe that they don't even know it's not their falt!!!
I dont think its right for someone to say that its against the rules for someone to like the same sex, and that someone died because of homosexuals, its just wrong.
I agree with the quote. Know matter who it is it is not something to be happy or laugh about when someone dies, even if they are gay. We have NO right to judge people, God and only God can judge. They obviously took the wrong path. Their choice.
I think that if you want to be gay, than it's your disition, people shouldn't judge other people that way...if you make a disition, and your happy with it, than you should keep it that way...
There is really nothing wrong with being Homosexual its normal i think they need to get over it with him being a homosexual or not it is right they do not have the right to call him that that is rude and disrespectful
I think you have no right to speak. Imagine what it would be like if it was happening to you or your children. Though we have the freedom of speech doesnt mean you have the freedom to make people feel like there lives have turned down the wrong road.
I Think that the court did the right think but I do think that the church should back off of on the military funerlers and give are fallen heros some respect
John Roberts was saying that if someone has an opion based on religion or personal thought, it is thier opinion and they can not be punished if it is hurtful to others.
I don't think that it is right to protest at somebody's funeral, even if they are gay. I agree with freedom of speech and all, but that is taking it too far. I believe that if somebody is gay, everyone else should just accept it and leave that person alone. I say, "Who are you to judge people about what they believe in, because other people could just as easily judge you and your beliefs.
I think it was very wrong for the supreme court to rule in favor of the church. Yes freedom of speech is important but sometimes people can take it to far, and as far as that funeral was considered I believe that was to far. When the church is protesting against the soliders aren't the soliders the reason we have a country? Aren't they the reason we still have rights? So why protest against them and want them to die if they gave you all the rights you have now.
I agree that people have the right to speak and protest,but saying that it's best that people who fight for our country die...that is going overboard!
It does not matter if someone is a homosexual or not, everyone deserves a respectful funeral. Those people who claim to be so religious are judging others, that makes no sense. As for the right to freedom of speech, I will qoute MKL Jr. "If it's not nice, if it's not true, if it's not necessary, don't say it." That is so simple.
You'd think that by 2011, we'd realize that everyone should be treated equally no matter who they love, their gender, ethnicity, physical or mental disability, religion, ect. If we can't punish the protesters for what they said, we should at least lower the number of people against the gay community by proving to people that there are wonderful human beings who are gay, and they are no different from everyone else.
If we have free speech, why is it not okay to say a threat?
As a gay student I am of course upset by the protest of the church. The setting and time they chose to do this protest was rude, insensitive and frankly none of their business. However if we have the right to protest pro homosexuality then they should have the right to protest anti homosexuality.
I don't think that the supreme court ruling was right. Those protesters were protesting right there at the funeral and were doing that on PURPOSE! My family member died and if those people did that at their funeral, I would be so mad! It was totally an invasion of privacy!
They said the fallen soldier wasn't gay, but homosexuals have rights too. They should be able to be homos without people bugging them. We live in the United States of America. The whole point of our country is freedom, rights, and opportunity. Those protesters were trying to take away the rights of people!
They said that God was punishing us for allowing Homosexuality, but I don't think he was. God made people different. He made us unique. I think He made homos like that on purpose so we can learn to open our hearts to the different lifestyle and accept it as theirs, not deny it it's existence.
There are plenty of other things God could be punishing us for, IF he is punishing us. Drug abuse, alcohol abuse, sexual harassment, swearing, etc. He might not be punishing us though. To be strong, you have to have a little struggle. If there was no struggle, you won't gain anything.
There. My super long post of what I believe in.
Those soldiers died for our freedom and to protect our rights of free speech. Those protesters wouldn't be out there protesting if it wasnt for the soldiers. How can people be so disrespectful to those who fight to protect them. How can people do that to a family who just lost a loved one?
People have a right to speak their opinion but they should also remember how it might effect the person they are speaking to. That soldier was person, no matter if he was gay or straight, he still deserved to have a nice funeral, and I can't imagine how the family must have felt to be disturbed like that when they were mourning a loss of a loved one.
Just because you reside in a pointed building and use "god" as a way to get your point across does not mean what you do is justified. Westboro is a hate group and nothing more. They've twisted and warped the vision of god in they're eyes to the point that they can believe what they do is right
This is outrageous. Why would people do such a thing? I come from a family that was in the military. Its downright disrespectful.
There is a fine line between speaking your word and causing pain. The most we can hope for on the Westburough Baptist Church problem is that they slip up and do something actually illegal, so they can be stopped. In the mean time, let's go protest on WBC's lawn!
I think that saying it is best that the peaple who fight for us die, is comepletely absurd. They served knowing they might not live to see their next birthday, which is very brave. I understand freedom of speech, but when it comes to disrespect, the protesters should be punished. If they are not, it just shows that their acts are okay and we should do the same. The Jury should think about this question, Is this the really way we want our future generation to act?
All people are equal, as said in the Constitution. Gay, or not, we are all the same: human beings. Nothing changes that. This man died for our country and for what he loved and believed in. He does NOT deserve such treatment. Nor do our other troops. There's a fine line between "freedom of speech" and "being prejudice."
This isnt right if a soldier isnt gay then they should be quiet about it because if the soldiers were to die then U.S. could b attacked more by terrorist and more people would die. Soldiers shouldnt pay for protecting a nation even if some of the people are homosexual.
The protestors had no good reason to say such awful things to the family of that young man. If they're so against homosexuality, why don't they just leave? In my eyes, it's a blessing to have freedom of speech, but people shouldn't use it to cause others so much pain.
i think that this is an out rage.!!!! this is not the kind of free speech i was thinking about when i read it in the bill of rights. this is a bad kind of free speech. i think these people should just leave them alone so the family's could take a moment to leave and remember their loved ones
It makes me uncomfortable that people can have so much hate for another group or humans. Yet I have to agree that people still deserve to have the freedom of speech, no matter who is affects.
Freedom of speech is great and all, but I think it's a bit overboard to say "God hates you!" to a dead soldier who isn't even gay. I do agree with the court ruling, though. The right of the people to speak freely should not be tampered with.
I believe that the court made the only decision possible. As disgusted as I am by the church in question, our inalienable, American right to speak freely is absolutely necessary. It may at first seem like a good idea to prevent such despicable speech, but once the government overrules that freedom in one case, no matter how extreme, it leaves room for them to do it again. Once the habit of censoring is formed, our freedom will only become more constricted.
My opinion on the matter is that it is no ones business who you can and can't love. When you love someone your sharing things from your heart. Yes people can have their own opinions and are allowed to say as they wish but why must we go as far as saying the troops that are trying to fight for our nation deserve to die because of other peoples wishes? Haven't you heard the saying two wrongs don't make a right? and what are they doing wrong but trying to love one another? You should be happy for what you have and not judge those who are different because your scared of change. Other people in the world are having far worse times then we are yet all we care about as Americans is prejudice and judgment. We are the home of the brave, we are free so why don't we act like it?
I realize that everyone has their opinion but their is a appropriate time and place to do this. A funeral is supose to show respect to the person that has passed. It also isn't right to bother people that have just lost a loved one in the way they did. I would have sued to.
This story is an outrage! how can you sleep at night, knowing that you've protested at the funeral of a fallen soldier, who I might add, just gave their life for our freedom?? Gay or straight, black or white, Jew or gentile, they are all soldiers, fighting for OUR country, OUR flag, OUR freedom!
I think this is nauseating. Church members are holding signs that say "God hates you" at the funeral of someone who died FOR THEM. It's sick, and it's sad- even more so that the Court ruled in favor of these people. Free speech is all very well, but Justice Roberts seems to have the same self-righteous, I-know-best mindset as the church members, and I would like to remind the both of them that we DO have a freedom of speech, but in our mission to enforce it we seem to have forgotten that things such as right and wrong exist at all.
I believe homosexuality is wrong but I also believe that the church went a little far. Protesting at a funeral is disrespectful and just not appropriate for the time.
I'm not a supporter of gay marriage- however, I do not believe WBC should be doing this to ANYONE, gay or straight. In the Bible, it clearly states that God is forgiving- he doesn't hate us, and he's not our enemy. I don't know why WBC have those signs that say that. They don't know the God I know...
People have the right to be what they want to be straight or gay. who are we to judge them.its their life not ours
Freedom of speech is much like a weapon. It may be used for the good of mankind, as well as used in the destruction of mankind. These people should be allowed to practice their arms, albeit used for outrageous reasons, so as long as they do not compromise human safety.
For the mourners of those funerals, I apologize, truly I do, for this abominable abuse of this weapon that our ancestors have gifted us...
It doesn't matter if someone is a homosexual or not. They served our country to keep us and our rights safe. They gave the ultimate sacrifice to keep our nation safe. I beleive that it is the least we can do to give them an honarable and respectful funeral service instead of protesting it.
I think wether a person is homosexual or not should not come into question. They served in our military to protect the people of the United States. Rather than disrespect them and their funeral; we should honor every single person that lost their life to protect us.
I don't think that it is right to speak out about personal opinions and harming peoples' feelings. Don't say being gay is wrong. People have a right to be who they are. We all are who we are! I do respect a churches rights as the next person but it does not give them that right to do that!
Unfortunatly, the Westboro Baptist Church does in fact have a right to free speech. It is the First Amendment and so, even though they HATE the U.S, they are still citizens.
God made everyone and loves us for who we are. I can't believe the protesters are saying that God hates us, He doesn't hate anyone. The Supreme Court couldn't be more wrong on their decision. Free speech is one thing but this isn't free speech this is lies. The protesters are being very disrespectful to the families of fallen soldiers.
As much as I agree with Freedom of Speech, it is wrong and unfair that a famiy had to suffer at their own son's funeral. I do, on the other hand, accept the Freedom of Speech and what it does for this country. I also like the chief justice's quote. It it very true and pure.
Freedom of speech is powerful, but I still don't think they had the right to interupt the funeral. I wasn't even their and I thought it was harsh.
You know what the protesters are saying, they're saying that Gays shouldn't be in the military and protect our country. I saw on the posters God hates you, we are all doomed because of the gay soldiers. Accept people for who their are, not by who they love or what they do. Peace !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I think that the supreme is right, but I don't think that the church should judge people like that because a church is about God and excepting people as they are and not judging them by what 'they wear to the dinner' buy by what they bring to the table.
These people are immoral and in my opinion insane. Unfortunately for us, our constitution defends them and gives them the right to do what they do.
This is wrong. Protesters should give this family privacy at the funeral. Also, this is a day of mourning, not protesting. Yes, there is the right of speech, but why protest at a funeral that was a soldier that helps our country? If it was me, I would never protest! People need privacy.
Their rights are protected by the !st amendment and cannot be punished within our United States. However much you may disagree with what they say, the freedom in which our soldiers have given us has also given us these unruly congregation.
I disagree with the decision the court made. If we are going to allow this happen to anyone it is wrong. For them to say it's right is to happen to a non gay man is unconstitutional and prejudice, But for them to allow it gay or straight is to say that this act of hate is okay in 2011 is a plan disgrace.
In this case, the church is in my opinion committing a crime. They are protesting against the men and women who give them the ability to have the freedom of speech in the first place.
freedom of speech is powerful, but you shouldn't to poeple who died for their counrty
The supreme court is right in some ways but wrong in many others. I understand that you have to listen to the constitution, but the constitution was not written this way. What I mean by that, is that we are misunderstanding or misinterpreting the written word of the bill of rights.
The church was completely rude. Don't say god's name in vain! Just because you're angry doesn't mean you should add God to the argument so people will agree. Your signs were hurtful and were full of lies. Take your time and pause the video and read the signs. I've never been so mad! What you did was a sin!( and you're a church!!)
I think that the Supreme Court is wrong. The church, what ever the religion can say what they want. I think that it's stupid that every single man, woman and child will go to hell because of America. Those people that protest should be banned from going anywhere near the cemetery when some one from the Military is buried.
You know the bill of rights says freedom of speech, but i think there is a line you shold know not to cross.
I think that this story brings up some key issues in America today. Freedom of speech or morals? I think that freedom of speech has a limit. People have gotten arrested for racial comments/prejudicial actions, and I think that insulting personal preferences should also be punished by the judicial system.
I disagree with the court's thoughts. I know that we have freedom of speech but we also have freedom of privacy and obviously the family members didn't want these people interupting. Plus, as the family has already said, their son was not gay so those people were rioting over nothing.
Freedom of speech does not make up for the fact that these men and women died to protect them, and that they're thanking god they're dead. I myself, being in a military family, understand the importance of our nations soldiers and the risks they take. I say we should not press charges against them, just that they should not do anymore protesting.
I believe that their decision to protest at the funeral only made Christians who are against homosexuality look bad. While I agree that homosexuality is immoral, holding up hate posters at a soldier's funeral is definitely not the way to go about spreading the word.
I don't agree with supreme court. Just because you have the right of speech, doesn't mean you should go to someone else's funeral and protest one your beliefs.
I am glad that the Supreme Court made their ruling according to the Constitution. However, I believe the Church is wrong for protesting against the people who allow them to keep their freedom their freedom of speech. The Church should leave the funerals alone, they have no right to protest in a time of grief. They should protest something something that needs protesting.
It's hard for me to understand how they can go and disturb a funeral with such things. Homosexuaity is a big issue in the church but protesting takes it a little too far. I think that we should leave people alone despite their romance live. That is their personal choose and we need to accept that as a people. Our soliders do so much for us and when it comes down to them dying for our freedom, we need to respect them and leve their families alone to grief. The Supreme Court did make a point that the church has the freedom to speak out about what they want but they need to consider where they are doing it. If I was in the place of a judge I would have to rule for the church because of their rights but I would be very disappointed in them for such rude and uncalled for behavior.
Even though I am against homosexuality, I still believe that it is wrong to hurt other people over it. There is always a way to stand up for what you believe while still respecting other people's views. There is a very distinct difference between freedom of speech and intentionally harming other people, and I believe that this difference is a very important concept to be understood.
i don't think it was right for the church to do that they had no right plus they were wrong god doesn't punish people
I think that a funeral was not the best place to protest about the soldier being the way he was and another thing is they accused the soldier of it and that does not mean he was homo sexual. That was not the groups place to protest and I'm sure it would hurt them deeply if someone did that to their son or daughter.
Even though I don't agree at all with the protesters, I believe the Supreme Court was right in their ruling because the first amendment gives us the freedom to speak our mind, but we have to understand that when people voice their opinions, they don't always share the same views as another.
I agree with the supreme court about freedom of speech but the church is mean to judge people like that.It seems like what the church is saying is a lot like bullying to me.They should ask them selves,WWJD.
I agree with the right of free speech but i mean, come on, IT'S A FUNERAL OF A DEAD SOLDER!! I also know that just because their opinion is different from my point of view its not wrong. I just wish that they would at least show a bit of respect. If the soldiers weren't fighting over there then we might be getting blown up! A far as their argument goes about the causes of war being the acceptance of gay people is plain stupid. , and personally i support the gays because its not something you can control... its all genetic. And i wish that people will wake up and realize that!
Age, race, color, or size doesn't matter. So why should being homosexual matter? God loves us no matter what we do. This church has a right to protest but with rights comes a responsibility and they were not using this right responsibly. It was very inaproppriate for them to do that in my opinian.
I believe that they had the right to be there and protest or whatever the thought they were doing, but what really made me mad was when i saw the clip of the protesters holding signs that said " god hates you" God hates no one no matter how many bad things you have done
I'm a christian, i want to be a pastor, but i'm a lesbian. does that change anything? No. I think that every one should see that change is good. Just because you're different in your sexual preferances doesn't mean a thing.
This shouldn't have even been brought to the court, because good Christians have tolerance and wouldn't have been there. Those people holding signs that said "God Hates You" were not even following their own religion. I feel so bad for the parents of the soldier. Sure, everyone is entitled to free speech, but there is something called common sense and compassion.
oh and people cant say that they agree with freedom of speech and then say that they had no right to be there
I suppose the Supreme Court ruled correctly when they said that we have freedom of speech, and that, since we have it, the protesters were well within their rights to protest, but I cannot believe anyone would go to a anguished father's funeral after his son has died, and shout that he was gay! But, on the Supreme Court's side, I also believe that freedom of speech is probably the part of the Bill of Rights that is most hard to deal with, because as time goes on and circumstances change, like this one, in which everyone probably thinks, "Those protesters should be sued." In fact, as much as we all hate to admit it, they were within their rights.
I think that that church group of protesters was crazy. God does not kill gays in the war for a reason! God doesn't kill anyone for a reason! I don't know where that group of protesters was when the minister was teaching the congregation about the time when Jesus said to LOVE ONE ANOTHER! I think what they did is disgraceful, and I don't know how they could see that father's face while they were shouting, and still keep saying those awful things!
While I'm all for free speech, I think congress went too far with this one. The inconsiderate way that the church has been protesting, (such as saying "God hates Jews", "God hates Obama", "God hates America", and "God loves dead soldiers") is extremely inappropriate. I understand everyone is entitled to their opinions, but this has taken it too far. Opinions shouldn't hurt.
I am against gay people and all, but I believe this church has gone too far in getting the word out. Freedom of speech was included in the Bill of Rights for a reason, but I believe how you express that freedom of speech can really hurt someone. If they were protesting infront of army recruiting office, it would be fine, but at a funeral...... yea... they need to be slapped some sense in to their brains.
I think that the supreme court is right but what the people are saying is rude. Does the Bill of Rights say we have to love who someone else thinks is right. It's OUR job to decide that. Freedom of speech is good but if it involves rude things, people just don't know when to stop.
The court made the right choice by the law, but the people going to the funerals shouldnt be saying those things because if the men and women who are giving thier lives for them and if they didnt they would have to right to be there and give there opion.
I agree with freedom of speech, however, it shouldn't be aloud near someones funeral, wedding, etc. No matter what sexuality you are, you should be accepted, if we dont accept people for they are, there will never be any peace, and this is a perfect example on why there is no peace in the world.
I think that even though the person was gay it is not right to hold up a sign saying: "God hates you". No matter if you are a murderer God will always love you. He will be upset and offended by your actions and choices but He will never hate you. This person was a soldier in OUR military trying to keep YOU and ME safe. Wether that person was gay or not they still deserve respect at their funeral.
That's not right because they are soldiers who put their lives on the line for us that is not right and that's how they treat them what they say about God and how he doesn't like them and everything is not cool
Yes, it is wrong to be gay BUT we have to remember that they served our country and tried to keep YOU AND ME safe. They deseve respect at their funeral. God will never hate you no matter what you do. I don't know what god that person was refering to but it wasn't the one true GOD that I know and love.
I am strongl christian, and i don't thik gay peole are an abomination and should't be prosecuted by churches. God loves us all no matte what and we should accept gays, not descriminateagainst them.
I agree with the ruling by the supreme court. Freedom of speech does not get to be suspended just because it hurts someone. While I don't agree at all with Westboro Baptists views, I believe that they're in the right when it comes to having a right to protest all they want.
Technically speaking, the ruling is correct. That doesn't mean it was appropriate for the church to show parade around funerals and wave innapropriate flags around people just like them. Homosexuals deserve a chance, in my opinion. They are just people.
I think that it is preposterous that people can be so selfish to protest against the people who are fighting so that those people can be selfish and can be free to speak out freely.
I do agree with the Supreme Court's ruling because it is part of our free speech. However, even though I agree with it, it doesn't mean I like it. I would make them pay the family if I were the whole Supreme Court. The first amendment says that we have the freedom of speech but to an extent. We can't disturb the peace, and I say that the protestors are disturbing the peace there. I mean, they were shouting out hate speech. I would say that that is totally absolutely unconstitutional. To me, it seems a bit like slander. It makes it seem like since they're against homosexuals, they were saying that that marine was a homosexual, and he wasn't.
People can't help who they love. They don't love them for whether they're male or female. They love them for their soul and their personality. I don't believe they had any right to blame gays. God made everyone in their own special way. People shouldn't blame or hate on others just because they are different then them. It just isn't right or fair. To themselves, the gays, to God, to anyone.
i think the supreme court is right the church does have free speech. but in my opion what the church is doing isnt right. God doesnt punish he displines.
I don't know whether the Supreme Court was right legally or not – I'm sure there are valid arguments on both sides. But what I do know is that if mankind followed the Bill of Rights and are country's laws alone, we would all be monsters. If we just went by the laws of the coutry, we wouldn't even have to love our parents, or be grateful for what the military does for our country; namely, to protect us all. We also could protest at a greiving father's funeral without having any moral qualms. But, fortunately, we are humans, and some of us have feelings, and would never do what those protesters did.
This church is following the bible! Leviticus 20:13 a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them.
By the quote, I believe he's saying that emotions can blind us to the facts and how we should react logically to come up with a proper solution. I agree with the quote, and that our emotions can sometimes get in the way of our proper judgement; although, emotions are what make us and we often use them to judge a situation in a posotive way, possibly altering our thinking for the better.
I think that the people protesting at the church had the right to be there because in America, we do believe in free speech, but I think that there should be a limit to what they are allowed to say. The family of the boy is hurting and what the protesters said was not necessary.
i honestly believe in those words! speech is one od the biggest things in america and i totally support that!
totally support! speech is one of the biggest thing anyone has to offer, and its very powerful
Sure, people have the freedom of speech. But what that church did was just wrong. Going to a funeral, telling the mourning family of that brave soldier that he deserved to die? Not right, at all! No matter what homosexuality, he gave his LIFE to serve and protect our country. He should be honored! This church needs to learn some respect, and be grateful.
obviously the church wanted publicity! im mean seriously think about it how down low can you go then showing up to a persons funeral who died in war and telling his parents he deserved to die because he was gay! some of the people even wore masks. if i felt that strongly about something i would show my face! i feel so bad for his parents! i wouldnt want my son to go that way i would want him to go as a hero nothing less
Even though the church has the freedom of speech, they have no right to personally target a United States soldier especially during his own funeral. They should in no way personally judge that soldier and speaking on the behalf of God and delivering the message that "God Hates You" is direct insult to their religion and God himself.
Don't get me wrong I am all for our right as American's to have free speech and the ability to express our ideas and opinions on things, but, I feel that we should be limited in some aspects. In some ways we already are. The Westboro Baptist Church shouldn't be allowed to picket a family's private mourning service for their son. I don't see how our Supreme Court could even remotely see how that's okay. A funeral is not the time or the place for a picket. There are other things the church could have done to express discontent with our nation instead of personally attacking one of the people who defend it.
I think it's horrible what those protesters are doing. Just because gay soldiers were born the way they were, that doesn't mean they are bad and the cause of bad things that happen to us. Especially people who died fighting for our country. I think the Supreme Court made the wrong decision. Even though people should be allowed freedom of speech, celebrating when a family is grieving their son is a cruel thing to do, whether or not they're homosexual. Gays and their families don't deserve that.
I agree that we should have freedom of speech and that people will and are being hurtful. I know that if I was there someone would die(JK) for being so disrespectful to my family. And if they call themselves Cristian's then there pretty messed up ones I think.I go to church and my step dad and my brother are major Christians and they are always saying it's never too late too pray and the sign says it is to late.It's like they are saying they rather have us all be not free and to be slaves then too have anyone be homosexual.They are so stupid I know that it's stupid because me and my friend were talking about gay and lesbian and biness and we figured everyone is bi but not every one is going to use both choices, so really they are saying that they would rather be slaves then... like human I guess they rather be slaves then being their self's and it's stupidness,I hate how disrespectful they were being and I will admit I'm not the nicest person either but seriously I would never cross that line and you should meet some of my Friends they can be really mean at times but none of us would go that far.I hope that all those stupid people get haunted by all the military groups ghosts for dissing them and their family's.If I got off topic at all during that sorry I am just really mad about that and how stupid people are they are always being stupid and blaming it on everyone else if they just stopped being stupid and realize that everyone has opinions and know that some should stay in their own head the world would be a much better place.So I agree about freedom of speech but I strongly disagree in their actions so if any of you are those stupid people I've been going off about cool down and stop being so stupid everyone is different and has a different story.Thank you. Bye.
I think that it is horrible that funerals are getting disrupted. I get that freedom of speech is needed, but in such a grief filled time, the church should know not to interrupt, it is so disrespectful.
The Supreme Court were right in ruling in favor with the church, because the church had the right to, they were far enough away from the funeral to protest. I have nothing against homosexuals, but if these crazy people believe that America is being punished, then let them believe that. I think that if the court didn't rule in favor of the church, there would be chaos. Telling someone they can't protest is like telling them they can't believe in whatever they want. Don't get me wrong, I would be so angry if these protesters showed up at my family’s funeral, it's rude and disrespectful, and on top of that, how would they know that he/she was LBGT? But they do have the right to, as long as they are far enough away. I'm sort of on both sides, since there are many pros and cons to this situation.
I feel people can have a right to say what they want but what they did was way to fair. You can think what ever you want but to go to somone that survied for us should not be disrespected like that and should not be. I dont think think that just because you are gay you are different. I have some friends that are gay and they are not different. I wish people didn't have to be so mean to gay people.
It is a funeral not a protest rally, the church shouldn't be there. God is about excepting everyone, not just one group of people.
I personally think it wasn't right. God says to accept everyone and love your neighbor, even if they are gay. The church's actions are not showing that they are Christians and hurtful. They needed to put themselves in the position that they were creating and see how they would feel. I don't necessarily the church should be punished because we do live in a free countries, but they do need to be ashamed of their actions. That is not what Christians do. i think perhaps that the church shouldn't be allowed to protest what they think at funerals and other private affairs, but they should be allowed to demonstrate in public like in front of the courthouse or their church.
we are fighting for freedom, not for homosexuals, i strongly disagree with protesting at military funerals where families have lost thier loved ones to keep us free, and some people have no respect for that
I believe that the supreme court may have made the right decision, however I believe that this group shouldn't have been anywhere near the funeral of this soldier. Also If you have a problem with gays in the community then that is your problem do not take it to a level where you are bashing the soldiers that are risking their lives to defend this country.
This story is very sad. I am personally part of my schools GSA (Gay Straight Alliance) program. It's so sad to hear the acts of hate, and even violence, agaist Homosexuals when all that our program is asking for is a safe enviroment. A place where everyone can be themselves. I think that was the Church is doing is wrong. There is a difference between protesting for what you beleive in and protesting because you want attention and want to hurt people. I personally think that the WestBoro Church is trying to get attention and hurt the familes that are already sad over the lose of their fallen soldier. The military is a wonderful thing. If they think that the country that many people would die to live in is "going to hell," why don't they leave and let someone who will appreciate it come in their place?
I think that the actions that took place are beyond rude, due to the inconsideration these protesters had. I'm sure if it was one of their loved ones they would not want such protests around. However, I have to agree with the Chief of Justice in not letting the pain do the talking or judging.
I strongly disagree with the Supreme Court's ruling. Although it is important to support the first amendment, there is a distinct difference between free speech and harassment. What Fred Phelps is doing is equivalent to verbal harassment and to the hateful speech that existed before and during the civil rights movement.
The F-word he uses is the exact same as the N-word.
IF anything, it seems to me that the Supreme Court does not want to have to deal with the issue of Gay Rights, just like during the late 1800's and the early 1900's.
i agree with that statement because actions are louder than words but words can sometimes fix everything. yes i thought of that by my self so smart, so smart.
I agree with the Supreme Court's decision. These people, as all Americans, are granted Freedom of Speech by the First Amendment of the Constitution. Although, I strongly disagree with the actions of this group and feel sympathetic towards the families of which their words have hurt, they have the right to express themselves through Freedom of Speech, no matter how distasteful and offensive those words may be.
Well, I think that the protestors were wrong for doing such an awful thing, but a freedom in America is freedom of speech and that can't be taken away from them
i think its wrong that people go to a soldier's funeral and say that they will go to hell because the soldier was defending homosexuals by going to war.i think thats not fair that the soldiers don't get to choose what to fight for.
i think that it is wrong to judge people let them make there freedom and let them do what ever they what to
I say if the court would like to rule,they should be nice and tell what they would say first.
I think that a supreme is right,I don,t think that thechurch shouldnotdo that.
I totally agree with the supreme court because the church was within the rights of the constitution, but for that church to interupt that poor family's memorial for there dead son was wrong. Also to say that God is punishing us for homosexuality is very wrong. They are just one baptist church in America and for them to think they have the right to say that is unchristian. Plus, having signs that say God hates you when it says in the Bible" To love your neighbor as you would yourself" is wrong. They obviously don't read their Bibles because God doesn't hate anybody and for them to say that is a shame to the baptist name.
I agree they shouldnt have sued the church, but i strongly disagree with them saying hes not 'strait' and that he shouldnt be. Even if he wast 'strait' it says everyone in this country should have freedom of religion. I hate how people descriminate against people who arent 'strait'
speech is very powerful and you can agree or disagree . Thats why freedom of speech is very important. If you have no freedom to speak then what are you going to say??
I agree with the Supreme Court's ruling. Due to the first amendment in the Bill of Rights everyone has the right to freedom of speech and freedom to assemble. However, i think it was extremely wrong for the Church to interupt the funeral service with their unruly protests; that was uncalled for!
I think what he said was right but the church shouldn`t excuse someone eles religon if it`s not theirs.
When I found out about the protest I was flurries. People protesting against a military man/women is wrong. Going against someone who risked their lives to save people in America including the protesters should be ashamed of their self's.
I think it is wrong. Even if they are gay, it doesn't matter. They lost their lives trying to protect our country, and these people just start disrespecting them.
Westboro Baptist Church needs to realize that they are allowed to picket at our soldiers' funerals because the dead soldiers have granted them that right.
Westboro's congregation criticizes anyone who is not one of them. They say that Catholics are vampires and Protestants have wandered too far from God's intention, what do you call protesting at funerals of fallen soldiers, churches, calling President Obama the anti-Christ, and any other chance they get?
All I have to say to Fred Phelps is: Yes, you have the constitutional right to protest, but does that make it right in God's eyes? Also, think about how many people will protest your funeral.
I think this is ridiculous. People should have the right to be themselves. There is a limit to free speech and when it is appropriate. This crossed the line, and the supreme court made a bad decision.
I believe that the protestors shouldn't have been let go this easy. Gay or not, these church protestors had no right to interrupt this funeral.
Dear the church men,
What you did at a funeral was awfully humiliating. You have to tolerate differences of people. Plus, you shouldn't make a harsh word for somebody who died.
I think the decision of the supreme court does make sense but do not act like that again, pleasepleaseplease
Freedom of speech is the the basic right of human which we should respect absolutely. Yet the right of privacy is another basic right. So in this incident, these two things seem to have collided. Supreme court's decision is based on the civil rights, but whether it's appropriate is decided by whether these protesters' behavior has ruined privacy of this homosexual man. And I think yes.
I thin the churcch shouldn't be allowed to protest at the guy;s funeral. The military guy fought for them! They should let his spirit go to Heaven peacefully... God made him how he was, so the Church shouldn't have the right to go and ruin his funeral and break the famil'y hearts
I believe that the court ruling was just they have the right to say what they want to say, but they need to choose the right venue.
I think the Supreme Court is absolutely WRONG to go in favor of this act of disrespect. The person was gay so he will have to answer to GOD. Not US. They had the choice between right and wrong and they chose wrong. Their choice, and only they can change their own choice.
I believe wether you were gay or not God will NEVER hate you. He will be disappointed in your choices and actions but He will always love
NO MATTER WHAT!!!! Holding up a sign saying "GOD Hates You" is way overboard!! Why was that person at the funeral in the first place???
For the simple disrespectful reason to moke the dead the whole time??? He was a soldier fighting to keep YOU and ME SAFE!!!! Show a little bit of respect!!!
I think they do not have the right at all. They should leave those alone people. Also they should have been punished a little bit maybe not severe but definitely punished. For example, they all should be fined each 200$ and have to write an apology letter to the family.. Also it is very wrong and disrespectful to the family, they shouldn't do this.
I see this as completely despicable! The Supreme Court just ruled against a man who died fighting for their ability to make decisions and now they are letting his funeral be in vain! What hypocrites! That man fought for them and now they let a church let him die in vain. Whether he was gay or not, the court should stand up for that man! Also, those church people should try reading the fact the God loves everyone, but he hates the SIN of gay people!
okay the freedom of speech is powerful in which everyone should obide for. and the protesters shouldnt be getting into everyones business because there is way more important stuff to worry about than people being gay. i really think tht the protesters should get a life and leave people alone. especially if they had just lost their loved one!
If it wasn't for solders, like this young man who died severing his country, they would not have had the right to protest! It was highly inconsiderate to his family and rude to have protested in such a mannor. People should learn to THANK our troops for fighting for the freedom we have to protest and gather and speak our minds in this country, not to disrespect thoes who have severd.
I do not agree with the court. It was a funeral and I'm sure the family was in greif. It sure would make them even more upset having crude comments said, about their loved one.
Speech is a powerful thing and I agree with John Roberts decision but I think that it was disrespectful for the church to protest at a funeral .
To be honest I don't agree with the protesters. I am straight and I am a Christian, but a funeral should be for the family only no matter if the person is gay or straight.
I don't agree with the court! That's wrong. You should respect people, especially when they're grieving. Plus, those soldiers are fighting for us! The church should not have the right to go do that. The church is saying God hates Gays, but you should accept them. It is rude to go show up at a funeral and start protests. Would they like it? No. God doesn't say hate people, but to love them. The church should mind their own business and go crash funerals.
I don't agree with the court! That's wrong. You should respect people, especially when they're grieving. Plus, those soliders, GAY OR NOT, are fighting for us! That church is not doing anything positive for our country! The church should not have the right to go to funerals, or anywhere near them and start protesting. That church is saying the Gays deserve to die, and God hates them, but in actuality they do NOT deserve to die, and He does NOT hate them. It is very rude and horrible to do that! Would those members like it if other people started doing things like that to their familes and friends? No. God doesn't say to hate people, but to love them. This includes Gays! The church should mind their own business and not go crash funerals. It's morbid, sick, and just wrong.
"God hates you" is not a decision that anyone has the power to make about a person, let alone about someone that gave their life for their country. I do not care if someone is gay, or even "tolerates" that there are gay people in our country, they do not deserve to die. Freedom of speech does not entitle you to invade a grieving family's privacy to make your opinions known. And that is why i do NOT agree with the court ruling.
I do not agree with the court ruling. It was 100% an invasion of privacy. There is a time and a place for everything, and at the funeral of a grieving family's son is NOT the place. There is no way that anyone deserves to die for protecting a country that "tolerates" something that the church does not agree with. It was not the church's place to make their judgments of this man; and certainly not in public.
Homosexuality is someone's choice, and nobody's but their own. The church has no place to discriminate at the funeral of an American solider to express their disapproval it. It is not okay to take advantage of Freedom of Speech in order to say you think someone deserved to die. I do not agree with the court ruling because invasion of privacy should still matter in this situation.
I know that every one has the freedom of speech.But in this case why would any human being do this!This is a church for crying out loud ,i think that people need to show respect.
I think that the Supreme Court is right; however I do believe that what the people said at the church should have been more cautious about what they were saying. Thinking about what people feel can help you in the long run for being more sensitive, put yourself in their shoes; what would you have done in that situation?
People do have the right to free speech and they can't have that taken away. They are doing what they think is right even though almost everyone else totally disagrees. I think that the church should be punished in a bigger way then a suing, but for now the government cannot go against the right to free speech. I hope soon that these people realize how horrible there actions are.
I understand where they're going...but why disturb a funeral, I wonder? This is sort of like saying "Sports are stupid" in front of a fire house. They need organization.
Freedom of speach is one of the many things i like.
I like to walk down the street and say whatever i want without being arrested for it.
well thats pretty mest up because they are judgeing a perso who they dont khow.........
My opinion about this story is that everyone has the right and have freedom of speech because i think that everyone should be able to let out and tell the government what you think about freedom of speech and that everyone should say whatever they want and protest whenever you want because people shuld know what you think what is wrong and what is wrong like going to protest at a funeral about a homosexual guy that died and thats not cool to go do that to thm and for me thats like disrespect to the family.well also many people have different thoughts and this is my thought about this whole situation.The basic message abnout this is let everyone live they want to live because we got the right to express ourselves and live in many ways.
I think the court is right and made a fair ruling . You can't punish anyone for speaking their mind .
I still agree personally with the Chief Justice John Roberts, but every story has two sides and I can see the opposing's side's point through all this. However, that being said, most people always choose sides depending on if it is a republican party or democrat and I think that even if you are a republican you should'nt just take one side for an argument; I guess what I am trying to say is that even if you are of the opposing party, you should still at least contemplate the other party's argument and root for what your heart tells you to.
I absolutely agree with the Chief Justice; what you say inflicts powerful emotion on your audience and I believe if you arouse an angry audience, you know you've got yourself in some hot water. Everyone has a right to stand up for what they believe in. But take Hitler as an example; he could manipulate and almost hypnotize his listeners to agreeing with his ideas no matter how absurd. Some people just have the power of persuasion on their side.
You just have to put yourself in the gay or lesbian's position; if you were a gay and you wanted to be in the military or get married, you would want to be able to just like other straight people. It is kind of like the Civil Rights argument, no matter if we're gay, straight, black, white, we should all have the same rights. This country was founded on equal oppurtinities, and most turn a blind eye to the issue of this at hand.
Usually protest are held to make a change, the potestors should realize that regaurdless, they can't change a dead soilders sexual perferance. I feel that protesting a funeral should not be allowed. The soilder's sexual preference is a personal decision. The loved ones, left to morn his or her death should not have to deal with the uprisng of protestors because of a decision out of their control. Regaurdless of the soilders sexual preference, they are fighting for one purpose that all citizens should be able to appericate-to protect the home of the brave.
The Supreme Court calling was right even though It is unnecessary to approve of the deaths of the American soldiers who help keep America free. Any race in this country has the right to have freedom of speech but to an limit. The protestors need to understand that this is an new generation and there is nothing wrong with homosexuality but again they do have the right of speech.
I understand that protesting is protected by free speech and the right to assemble. I don't, however, like that a group of people who are protesting against a fallen soldier are granted free speech. It is true that I can't do anything about this scenario, but I feel as if our American justice has failed the father of the dead soldier. Whether or not the group's free speech is protected, I don't think it is morally right that they should do that.
I think that it is wrong that the speaker was punished just because of what he is saying. Everyone has the freedom of speech.
In our country there is one right that we will always argue about: freedom of speech. There will always be circumstances where people won't agree with what's being said, but fortunately(and sometimes unfortunately) our rights are what make us America and is one of the priveleges we are entitled to.
Justice Roberts quote was for sure true but i did not agree with them on their ruling. Our first right is the freedom of speech, but there is a point where it gets offensive. The homosexuality already have many law suits and such against them, why add more to the burden? It feels as if we've moved on from discriminating races to homosexuality. Some opinions should be kept to yourself. I just hope this ends before it gets out of hand
I think that the supreme court is right but i don't think that the church should be judging anyone