Fred Phelps vs free speech

[Luke]

While a part of me wishes he was unknown I am curious to know if I am the only one who does not think Fred Phelps should be allowed to demonstrate at funerals. Phelps is the "pastor" from Kansas who shows up at military funerals to disrupt the proceedings as a form of "protest".

I find this to be as an abuse of the 1st ammendment as allowing the KKK or the Nazi party to parade.

I am reminded of someone saying they would know pornography when they see it.

[Ryan Ruck]

I'd love nothing more than to ban those idiots from doing what they do but, we are supposed to be a free country so my answer is somewhat gray in color. Can't really pick a choice in the poll...

I think he and his merry band of 'tards should be allowed to protest so long as it isn't on private property that the owner bars them from.

Conversely, I also think they should be allowed to face the consequences of using "fighting words" and inciting a riot with no repercussions to those who would respond predictably to such words and actions.

But seriously, from what I've heard, the Patriot Guard Riders do a pretty good job of shutting those freaks down by making a wall of people and flags to block them out and shield the funeral goers from them.

[Malsua]

I also think that the repercussions should also be allowed as Ryan noted. It would be quite pleasing to see the patriot guard tune up Phelps and crew.

Our society has become so overblown to protect the indefensible that we're in the insanity zone. Phelps will get his some day. You can't piss off that many folks for that long without someone finally shoving a shiv in your ribs or perforating your brain case with a .45.

[Backstop]

I went to Quantico Arms in Killeen 3 years ago (IIRC).

When I left, Westboro Baptish Church (WBC) was protesting at a McDonald's right near the highway.

I stopped for the light, and they were right there - as I looked out the passenger window.

Don't think I've ever been that mad.

I saw the protestors, LEOs, and mil in uniform. Pretty much all 3 groups kept to themselves.

Strangely, a bus pulled into the lane to my right, completely blocking all the protestors.

So my vote is this:

Free speech generally wins, but if you do something as vile as what WBC does, then consequences should allowed.

How's that for a new law?

[American Patriot]

While it is an American RIGHT to be able to have freedom of speech, with that freedom comes responsibility.

I have no problem with him protesting. I have a personal problem with him protesting and disrupting the funerals.

Out side a cemetery, not blocking the roads and entrances, down the road, or even on a street corner... go for it.

Don't get in the middle of a funeral procession for one of my family members though.

Because... YOUR RIGHTS stop at MY RIGHTS. Your rights are not bigger than my rights.

Period.

No he shouldn't be allowed to protest in the middle of funerals.