For far to long Fred Phelps and his band of extemists have hideen behind the first amendment to spread lies and hatred. I believe in the first amendment and believe even the most vile should be allowed to speak their mind. However, I also think there are lines that should not be crossed. Phleps long ago crossed that line.
I came across this story this afternoon on the Huffinton Post and found myself more angry then I have been in a long time. To add insult to injury this man not only had to endure the hatred at his son's funeral but now he is being made to pay for the legal costs of Phelps's church? Are you fucking kidding me???
I do not know a lot about the case other then it involves yet another display of anything but Christian values. I do not know a single person, religious or otherwise, who can say anything remotely positive about this so called Church. If nothing else common decency suggests you should let a family grieve for the loss of a loved one. Yet there was the Phelps protesters spreading hate and lies. This should not be about free speech as stated on http://www.matthewsnyder.org/
This is a private civil lawsuit that is separate from any actions being pursued by states or the federal government against Mr. Phelps. While those cases involve Government action and potential 1st Amendment issues, this case is distinct. This case simply alleges that one does not have the right to conspire to use lies in order to inflict intentional harm upon persons who are grieving the death of their children.
It is high time Phelps' protests of funerals be stopped. Unfortunately it seems the media only cares when there is an actual protest. Once it is over it seems forgotten until the next time the memory of a loved one is disparaged in a sea of hate.
Edited to fix a link...damn colon...