Wednesday, October 13, 2010

A different case of free speech - Snyder v. Phelps (Post #17)

A Kansas Church and its pastor (Phelps) have made news over the last few years and the case has now moved to the supreme court. The video below first appeared on 20/20 on ABC network. This story is a little old now as a federal appeals court has reversed the decision to award money to Snyder in damages. That court has ruled Snyder must now pay Phelps' legal fees. He has now appealed and we await the decision of the supreme court to determine whether Phelps is legally allowed to continue his church's activities.
Caution the language used may easily be considered offensive.  If you'd rather not take the chance of being offended do not watch and read this link instead with the same story.
As you discuss the case in your comments. Don't focus on the message too much.  Remember the Snyder family's son is not accused of being gay.  All soldier funerals are being targeted by the group.
Keep your comments respectful, don't try to overextend your own 1st amendment rights, remember you are students and the teachers have control over this forum.
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Questions:
Do they have a right of free speech in this case? Does the 1st amendment apply to their actions? If this qualifies as hate speech, does it inspire riots or violence?

Does the 1st amendment it allow them to freely exercise(practice) reglious beliefs in this matter?  Why do you think so?

Do their actions take away the rights of others? In this case, is it an invasion of privacy of the Snyder family?

Are cemeteries public places where protest is allowed?  Should they be?  Whose job would it be to make a law regarding that?

If they both have rights, whose outweigh the others and what should the Supreme Court decide?

119 comments:

  1. I've seen multiple videos concerning this church's actions before, and all I can say is that I am extremely disgusted. I do believe in the right to free speech, but the actions of this church cross the line. Spewing words of hate towards a grieving family is unacceptable ab=nd extremely unnecessary. I do not believe these people deserve their first amendment rights if they abuse them in a way such as this. I'd be happy if the Supreme Court denied the church the right to protest in such a way. It's what should be done.
    Conner Woods Bauer

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  2. While the subject matter of their speech is not appropriate or courteous, it is THEIR speech, they have a right to say what ever they want under the constitution. if it is hate speech (duh) if it causes riots and violence, then the crouds should be disbanded and the violence stopped, but as to what they say, it's their right, i dont approve, but its their unalienable right to say their opinions and beliefs..

    freedom of religion is unalienable, the constitution under which this country is founded upon assures them this right. wether they practice it for good or bad.

    their actions are not necessarily taking away the rights of others, but it is very immoral to essentially be glad someone's wife, husband, child is dead, funerals are a sad private event, what they are doing is a horrid.

    cemetaries are public, some private, but the funerals should be exempt from protest, nobody needs people like this when they're already grieving for a loss, to make the law-congress they are the legislative branch, they make laws.

    neither side outweighs the other, its a matter of stopping violence and promoting the general welfare, they have a right to say these things, but it's still horrible, i think the supreme court is going to bash these gay bashers to the next life with thier ruling. or so i hope.

    bryan jenks
    bauer p.1 ap gov

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  3. Jackie Douglas Bauer P.2October 13, 2010 at 11:26 PM

    They were smart and familiarized themselves with the law and the first amendment. Arguing that it is their freedom of speech and right to practice their religion has bailed them out of trouble thus far. However, they are abusing this right to it's full extent! They've found the loop holes and twisted the words to what they want them to be.

    I highly disagree with their actions because while they have the right to express themselves, they absolutely in no way possible have the right to steal the attention away from something that is already so painful such as the Snyder funeral; and many others. The Supreme Court should declare them a disturbance of the peace.

    Something else that I noticed... The Phelps think that they are superior to "those people", meaning basically everyone on the planet. And evidently it's their "job" to spread the message... Well, I don't think God would want such hateful campaigns in his favor. Someone once told me that in order to win someone over, I have to kill them with kindness. Basically be so unbearably nice to them that they agree with me... It's effective and alot less extreme than blatantly saying that "God hates the world" ...

    It's just so shocking some of the things I noticed in the video. The brother guy was like "John, you don't get to define the word hate"... Well, he doesn't get to play God and say whose going to Hell and who isn't. And then Shirley's son couldn't even define a fag, and her other one said that a fag was a Jew?!

    Psychotic.

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  4. This is wrong, the Supreme court should rule to limit first amendment rights for a peaceful funeral. It is an invasion of privacy and wrong to protest a grieving family whose son or daughter gave their life in service to our country. The church should be allowed to exercise free speech however limit the time and place, not during a funeral when people are paying their respects, it is wrong and not respectful. Sloan p.3

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  5. I feel that this is totally unacceptable. They should not be allowed to ruin a funeral and disrespect those who have passed away. This should not be allowed regardless of what the first amendment says. They should not express their religion in this way because it is harmful and hurtful to the family who is grieving over their loss. There protests at inappropriate and someone should act and make a law against such practices. I don't know who would be responsible for making that law but it needs to be done.

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  6. Danielle Smith, Sloan P1October 14, 2010 at 2:48 PM

    The right to free speech should not be granted in this case, hands down. Though the first Amendment does include freedom of speech, this crosses way too many lines. It's a FUNERAL! Have some respect. I think it's obviously hate speech and speech like that should not ever be deemed as constitutional. Actions like this take away the rights of others to grieve as they please for the person or people they have lost. Starting problems like that at a funeral is an invasion of privacy for any families who have had to deal with this. Cemetaries are places to grieve, show respect, and remember; it's not a place to protest, blame God for deaths, and insult homosexuals. The Supreme Court should decide against allowing anything even remotely similar to this to ever happen again.

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  7. I think that These people should be restricted with their speech. They are wrong, and it is unacceptable. I also think that they have whatever is coming to them. They shouldnt be covered under any first amendment rights.

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  8. Amanda Eckroth
    per.1
    mr.sloan
    i think they do have the right for the 1st amendment.. but people have until a certain point of free speach.. like them kicking the american flag that should never be allowed..

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  9. I believe that people have the right to believe in any type of religion they choose to; however I do not think you should be discriminated against for what you believe in. If you believe in god, and another person doesn’t, then there is no reason you can’t be friends still. I think it’s disrespectful to put another person down just because of the religion they chose to believe in.

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  10. Maria Schmidt, Mr. Bauer, Period 5October 14, 2010 at 4:04 PM

    I agree with Tyler that this is totally unacceptable. I understand that the First Amendment guarantees free speech, but this is just plain disrespectful. People have the right to grieve in peace, and they don't deserve having to deal with this type of situation while they are at a funeral for a loved one. I also agree with Amber that the church members should be able to express their opinions, but not during the funeral.

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  11. Hannah Engebretsen/ Bauer P2October 14, 2010 at 4:11 PM

    I agree with maria that everyone is entitled to free speech and religion. But i dont think it was ok during the funeral like maria said. People should have a passion for what they believe in and not be critisied or looked down on because of it.

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  12. There is a difference between freedom of speech and harassment. To me this seemed like harassment, which I am STRONGLY angered by. It is one thing to stand on a side walk protesting your beliefs, but is another thing to protest a funeral of a soldier of a family that you don't even know and offend the attendants of the service. What really bothered me watching this video is listening to the younger children that are following in the footsteps of the church. They are being told to protest against gays and sinners, but the children when asked do not even know what being gay means. Literally, the two boys asked could not give an answer! These children don't ACTUALLY know what they are saying when they participate in these protests. It is okay for this church to believe in their faith, however I don't not believe that they should be given any right to show so much disrespect and cruelty. When I watched the video, I felt like they were literally attacking people with their words. Technically the first amendment does give the church their right to free speech and they do stay within legal boundaries. However, I would hope that there could be a way to restrict their protests without taking away their first amendment rights.

    Devin Smith, Mr. Bauer, P.1.

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  13. As much as I dislike religious extremism, I would have to say that as long as their speech and protest did not incite riots or violence, it should be legal. However, since it is very hateful speech which is very likely to cause violence, it is a case to watch out for. I don't really think their actions take away the rights of others, because others can protest, sue, or do whatever means necessary (legal, of course) to protest and speak against them. On the case of cemeteries being public property and legal to protest on, I would have to say that it can be legal, but at the same time, a part of me likes to think that it is partially the property of the families whose loved ones died there, mostly because they had to pay money for the coffin and all the funeral fees. Overall, I think the Phelps, although very offensive, do have their right to free speech and protest provided it does not incite riots or violence. However, it would be something that the government would need to watch out for, since a situation like this could derail and get out of hand even more, very quickly.

    Brian S.
    Per. 4

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  14. Yes the first amendment allows everyone to have free speech but in this case they are being completely disrespectful and crossed the line. The last thing you want at a funeral is those people protesting and shouting obscene things. I don't think that protestors should be allowed at funerals it's just rude and inconsiderate. Sloan per 1

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  15. They do not have right of speech in this case and no the 1st amendment doesn't apply to their actions mainly because this is horrible. it is considered as hate speech and it could inspire riots or even violence. Yes 1st amendment allows them to freely exercise religious beliefs but only to extent. You can't run around and tell people "america's war casualties are God's wrath for tolerating homosexuality". I think so because its hating on a group of people and saying things that could possibly convince other people to say the same things and do wrongful things. Cemeteries I think you could protest on and is allowed because it is a public place like a park where everyone is welcomed to it. If both have rights the people being "accused" should outweigh the protesters because the people mean no harm and protesters could.
    Sloan Period 1

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  16. I think they do have free speech unless they do harsh actions like breaking the window of a car, but other than that they should be able to just scream what they believe. People can avoid them or scream back as long as no violent actions take place. I guess it is hate speech and can cause violence because it is against sexual orientation. The 1st Amendment does allow them to exercise speech, because they are already exercising it by picketing which is their freedom of speech. I think their actions did invade the privacy of the Snyder family to have a peaceful funeral for their lost one. I think they should have waited until the funeral was over at least, because it's already hard enough to deal with a death. If cemeteries are public property were protest is allowed, then they shouldn't be because it's where the dead bodies of human live forever and where family members go to grieve. I think it would be the job of the families who lost a loved one or of the landowner to make the decision of whether or not to allow protests there. If the Phelps caused damage during the funeral or disturbed the peace then Snyder should win, but I think that eleven million is a bit too much for that. If nothing wrong happened, then the Phelps should go free with no charge.

    Melody Morphis
    Mr. Sloan
    per. 1

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  17. I dont think Phelps can justify his casse with the first amendment, because his actions are emotionally harming the deceased's families and is hate speech, because it is encouraging others to do the same. The first amendment doesnt protect the right to religious beliefs in this case because, the people are hurting a family who just lost a loved one. It is also an invasion of privacy, because the people are coming to a private ceremony to respect and memorialize someone not trash personal choices of the deceased. I think the families rights out way those of the churches because the family is greiving for a lost loved one, they don't want to be harassed.

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  18. Katey Santillan P1 BauerOctober 14, 2010 at 4:37 PM

    I coouldn't agree more than what Jackie Douglas said. Being familiar with the law helps and they do have the right to free speech but is it moral?
    Absolutely not. That church is the extremest of the extreme quoting that God "hates the world and his people" and how "gays are worthy of death". It isn't their job to say who gets to go to heaven.
    Those people aren't a good example of what the church should be like AT ALL and it's really sadd because it's people like them who give Christianity a hypocritcal reputation.
    No one should be allowed to protest at cemetaries.
    As for outside they do still have that right, it's just something that isn't moral.

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  19. Steven Reichmuth, Bauer, period 2October 14, 2010 at 4:53 PM

    When is the comet coming to pick them up? Sounds to me like this isn't a religion...its a cult. These people are crazy...protesting a funeral, come on have some respect. I agree with freedom of speech, but at some point it this has gotten too out of hand. Maybe the money that guy sued them for will shut them up, even though the amount he's trying to get is outragious

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  20. I Believe that people should have the right to the first Amendment, but in this case that right is only causing harrassment. A family should have the right to their privacy especially in a grieving moment. The protesting by a church and its members highly disturbs me becaue a church should be the least place to do such a thing.

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  21. THIS ISSUE MAKES ME VERY ANGRY AND DISGUSTED TO SEE THAT A CHURCH WOULD DO THIS TO A GRIEVING FAMILY. I MEAN THATS JUST RUDE ITS NOT POLITE AND THEY SHOULD RESPECT THE FAMILY'S LOSS. THE 1ST AMENDMENT WAS VIOLATED IN THIS CASE. THESE PROTESTS ARE CAUSING HATRED AND VIOLENCE NOT PEACE AND LOVE. I BELIEVE THAT THE CHURCH SHOULD BE LIKE FINED OR SOMETHING. ITS JUST NOT RIGHT =[

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  22. I think that the church should not done what they did. I think thar they are trying to force people to believe what they believe.
    tori milligan
    Sloan per.3

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  23. I think that they do not have the rights to free speech in this case. What they did is completely disrespectful. You DO NOT protest at a funeral! A funeral is a families time to grieve and say their final goodbyes to their loved ones, a protest shouldnt be happening during that time.

    Chelsea Ray
    Mr. Sloan, p.1

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  24. I believe that people in general have the right of free speech and that the 1st amendment does apply to their actions. I believe that this qualifies as hate speech and it does inspire riots or violence. The 1st amendment allows them to practice this excercise freely because this amendment allows them to express what they believe. For them to pay 11.5 million dollars, I think is ridculous. No one should be fined that much for protesting. Although I believe in freedom of speech, there's also a point, a line, to not cross. It's not even about freedom of speech when it comes to the point of funerals or grieving families. When it comes to that point, it is more or less being respectful towards others. For those who are disrespecting towards those people who are grieving for their loss, they should not think that they are going to heaven but more or less, they're going to hell. I am not a big believer in God honestly. But those who are protesting and disrespecting are blind to see that they are going to hell.

    Chrissy Vue
    Sloan
    Period 3

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  25. Maria Perez
    Sloan
    Period:4
    I believe that everyone should have the right to the free speech of the 1st amendment but in this case they do not have the right for free speech because they went further than one can epect. They went passed the line, they were disrespectful and why show the young ones all these things at that age, and I think this is considered a hate speech. The 1st amendment does give the people to practice free religion but to a limitation and in this case they passed it because they could practice a religion but with limits like not being disrespectful. I think that cementaries are no place for protesting specially these kind of hate speeches. I think that this issue should be solved because it is going further, as the time goes by.

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  26. I believe this is incredibly wrong. Yes the first amendment protects this type of free speech, but a restriction should be made to this extent. This issue also makes me very mad and sad at the same time that a church would do such a thing to a family that just lost a family member! Honestly this church is sending a hate message instead of a positive one.I agree with freedom of speech, but at some point it this has gotten too out of hand!

    Brian Leiva
    Mr. Sloan
    Period 5

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  27. Danielle Bulmer -- Bauer -- 4October 14, 2010 at 6:01 PM

    This post actually infuriates me. I do not think that the first amendment applies to these people at all! It serves them right that they were sued, and the ironic part? They say that bad things happen to people because god hates them... they were just sued for $1.5 million that they do not even have!
    I mean what are they even thinking exposing their kids to such hostile foul words? They are not speaking for God, they are speaking for the devil. They have absolutely NO right to tell society what God thinks of them and that he hates them, ESPECIALLY at a funeral. That was definately inappropriate.

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  28. The words that come out of their mouths are pretty crazy, but they do have a right to free speech. I also believe the 1st amendment applies to their actions. Do i think it's right to crash a funeral? No. This is definitely a hate speech though. They're singleing out homosexuals and it causes violence and riots. In the video, people were throwing things at their car and the window also got broken. That's violence.

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  29. I think that everyone has the right of speech but at a certain point,I think that these people are doing wrong because no one has the right to talk bad about religious beliefs to try and make others believe in what their believes are,I think this is violating the 1st amendment.

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  30. The first amendment gives us the right of free speech and i believe everyone should have the right to free speech. But this case was simply wrong. Especially because it was at a funeral. That is not right, and they should not have done that. The cemetaries are not a place for protesting.

    Melissa Quezada
    Mr.Bauer
    P.2

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  31. Yes, they have their rights of free speech in this case because that right cannot be taken away from them. I think that they are abusing their right by acting the way that they do. Of course it qualifies as hate speech and it does inspire riots and violence. The firs amendment does allow them to practice religious beliefs in this way because they are not physically harming people. Just emotionally and in some cases violating their privacy, which is wrong. The Sydney family's privacy was invaded. A funeral is a private occasion that should not be invaded by hateful people like them. It's not right. I don't think the Supreme Court legally has the right to limit a person's free speech, but I think in this case it should be an exception. You shouldn't be allowed to that hateful towards a person and what they believe. I also think that it is just sick to teach a child to be that hateful towards any group of people.

    Sloan P.2

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  32. Yes, everyone has the right to free speech, including this church. However, there actions are not okay. And as far as the violence goes, it needs to be stopped. If that means getting rid of the crowds then it needs to be done. Also, if this churches actions and speeches affend people to do violent acts then hey need to be stopped.

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  33. In my opinion, freedom of speech only goes so far. This should be filed under hate speech and the families should not have to deal with it. These people sicken me beyond belief.

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  34. I believe that the first amendment does a good job of protecting our rights, but there are times that it seems that the first amendment needs to be more strict. It is not alright that these people are protected by their first amendment rights to go through with violent acts. It seems that these people are violating clear and present danger because their assembly is causing violent outbreaks.
    Bauer per4 Sloan per3

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  35. Every person has a right to free speech in this country. The first amendment applys to their actions, they are practicing thier rights but they are also abusing them. I do not believe in what they are saying and it is extremly disrespectful and wrong how they are deivering thier message. It is a hate speech and it does inspire riots and violence. It is a right in this country to have freedom of religion and the right to free speech so they can believe what ever they want but they should not be ranting on about it at the places they are it is so disrespectful to their fellow americans. The actions they take are taking away from the rights of others. It is wrong to disrespect your own people exspecially when someone who served your very country is being layed to rest. Although they say it is their right people should have morals and respect for others no matter how much their belief differ. There is a time and place to rant about belief and what is and isnt right they invated the privacy of the family and that is what they will have to remember of their sons funeral forever. Although both sides clearly have rights it is matter of respecting your fellow people and a funeral is not the place to practice hate, that is the most disrespectful thing to do when someone is being laid to rest for service in their country. They shouldnt be in this country if they dont believe in their fellow americans. The supreme court should punish them for their actions.
    Spencer Pellandini
    Sloan
    P.1

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  36. The family has every right to protest and push their opinions on the world. They may have a disgusting and offensive way of getting their message across, but that is not for us to decide. Living in America, you have to take the good with the bad and vice versa. With freedom of speech comes the right to petition, demonstrate, and scream their little extremist hearts out, while others scream their own beliefs back. I was extremely outraged by the content in the video because the family is talking about the freedoms they have to convey their message, but it seems that they believe that theirs is the only message, and that anyone against them should not have the freedom to believe in something else. They talk of trying to help people, yet they are discriminating, which is not the type of message America was built on. Shame on them. Bauer/Sloan

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  37. I cant beleive those people call themselves a church. They seem more like a hate group that enjoys makeing people angry. They should deffinately have to pay the 11 million dollars to the family of the soldier who got killed fighting for there freedom to be able to say those things. How do you think that soldier would feel if he found out that he gave his life for a bunch or idiots like that.I think what their doing is classified as hate speech and should not be protected by the constution. You have to draw the line somewhere.
    jake beilby per 1

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  38. that was definately unacceptable in my eyes. yeah they do have to right of free speech, but there needs to be a law that bans the preachings and practices of certain beliefs at funerals. a family was grieving the loss of their son who served in our country...have some respect. also it was astonishing how they got thier kids involved and saying words that they dont even know the meaning of. but yes, the synder family should definately sue those people for what they did.
    ~~brooke fletcher:)
    mr bauer
    period 3

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  39. They do have a right to believe in any religion they want but when it comes to harrassing others and flat our crulety like they have done, it is not okay. The first amendment does protect the freedom of speech, but for this particular issue, it should not be constitutional.

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  40. I agree with Maria, that everyone has a right to practice their own "religion" but if it is something where they are disrespecting our entire country they should not be allowed to practice things like that in public. It is very hard to express my thoughts about this post because im am astonished that there are even people like that.. They should not be allowed to express any of their beliefs in protest like this. In my opinion religion should be a personal thing that people keep to themselves and practice with other people that feel the same way, but i do not believe ANY kind of protest based on religious beliefs is acceptable; either way someone will be offended and why should people push their religion onto other people who do not believe the same way they do? It doesn't make someone a bad person if they do not agree with your thoughts.If i saw these people protesting the funeral of a brave man or woman serving our country I wouldn't be okay with that AT ALL. I think they should pay the fallen soldier's father all that money and an apology as well. I think some one needs to kick their asses (BUTTS) ;] .....please dont remove my post!...

    Hayley Swearingen
    Sloan
    Per. 4

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  41. I believe any person could belive in any religion they want or if they chose not to. The thing is that no one should ever be harrassed by someone just becasue of their religion.Everyone has the right to practice their own religion.

    Clarisa Carrillo
    per.4
    sloan government

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  42. Janeiry Balderas, Mr. Sloan, Period 4October 14, 2010 at 8:42 PM

    They have the right by the first amendment, but that shouldn't be allowed though if they are making to much conflict. Also they should not be permitted to go on cemeteries where people are going through a hard time. It is public but in a sense it is not because you pay to put your love one there and therefore you should be able to not have to go through those things. They are doing bad though and they do oppress what people think, they should be limited by the supreme court to say such offensive things where ever they want. If they really want to they should do it by personal broadcasting or doing this on their own property. After all though they do have the right to say what they want but they could do it in a nicer way(which obviously they cant).

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  43. Free speech is given to everyone because it is said to help us live our lives freely in America.
    However, using that to hate on a certain race, religion, or belief is completely unacceptable. Free speech should be limited because what people say or represent can truly hurt another citizen. This right should not hurt someone Else's and if it come to a point where some rights need to be taken, then it must be. It needs to be for the good of the people, which is exactly why we have these rights in the first place.

    Daniel Ruiz
    Sloan
    Government Per. 5

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  44. This is horrible, I agree that people have the right to their own opinion and they can say what they believe, but i highly doubt that anyone wants to here these people saying such rude things. I believe that our freedom of speech should be limited to fit what is moraly right, and to me this is not. I believe that they took privacy away from the synder family, they went their sons funeral to be harassed, that is morally wrong. I believe that the supreme court should take the synder's side.

    Trista Dowdy
    sloan per.5

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  45. Omar Delgado, Mr. Sloan, P. 4October 14, 2010 at 8:49 PM

    They are really rude people and one does have the right to say what one likes. but they are really wrong because who are they that must condemn all people. even though they have their first amendment right they use it to harshly, but only the courts will be able to decide how much they these individuals are allowed to say, mostly because what they say is highly offensive to other people.

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  46. The church and Phelps do not have any right what so ever to disturb this family, or any other, in their time of grief. It is not only disrespectful but extremely unethical. I understand that the church does have their right to express their beliefs, however they are expressing in a wrong way and will lose a momental amount of supporters. Cemetaries are places for people to grieve and as such should be respected by all.

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  47. I think they're taking the first amendment too far. They have the right to practice their religion but in a respectful manner that wouldn't disturb the rest of the people. The fact that they go to private events is wrong. Even though they're trying to promote their cause, i think they're doing it immaturely and that the local government should step in somehow.

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  48. As others have said, this extreme hatred passes the line of first amendment rights. It inspires violence and riots against them because they are judging people and using God's name when doing so. This is an invasion of privacy for the Synder family because they should not be protesting at the funerals of people as this is a time for the family to privately pay their respects.

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  49. Richard May mr sloan per 4October 14, 2010 at 9:15 PM

    Cemeteries are not public property. They are not owned by the government, while some are not all are. If the cemetery is controlled by private organization then they do not have the right to protest unless given permission, which is expressed in the first amendment. If the cemetery is public property, national cemeteries, then technically it is legal but completely unethical and wrong. Though the 11 million is a lot of money it could be upheld because that is a right of the family being violated.

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  50. Dominique Jimenez Sloan 5th P.October 14, 2010 at 9:17 PM

    It is legal for them to have free speech over anything they want, but it does provoke violence and riots. All at the same time the first ammendment is in effect.The first ammendment does alow them to practice their beliefs of this. Just like verone else has the right to believe in what they want to.They're action do not take rights away from others, because theyre not harming anyone's rights theyr just stating their beliefs.Protesting should not be alowed in cemeteries, it is disrespectful for the mourning famiies.

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  51. I strongly disagree with the Phelps' beliefs, but i think they should have the right to express their beliefs. I think that the first amendment does protect their speech because it is part of their religion. If cemeteries are funded with tax money then they should be public.

    omar Hoyos
    Bauer

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  52. Waving signs and being as aggressive as the members of that church are is verbal harassment in my eyes! That is completely uncalled for. It is one thing to believe that homosexuality is wrong and it is another to harass and express hate at homosexuals simply because of their sin. Do they make fun of and verbally abuse everyone who cusses? Or lies? No! In being selective and pointed at one specific group, they are committing a hate crime in my eyes.
    Caleb Boyd
    Mr. Sloan
    Per. 2

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  53. I believe that although it may be constitutional, it is not right. They are allowed to do this as long as they do not threaten to hurt them, or start to hurt people, they are allowed to do this. The only way that this could be ruled unconstitutional by the supreme court is if they rule that since they are against the millitary, they could say that there is an imminant danger posed to our national security. That would then mean that they would not be allowed to do this, so bottomline is that it will depend on how the supreme court interprets this.
    Bauer per. 1
    Sloan per. 3

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  54. Although technically and on paper it is their right to do these things we as a society have to drawn a line. These guys are nut jobs obviously but I think that in some cases exceptions should be made. They should not be allowed to protest funerals or even spread these ideas they are idiotic. I think we should drop the whole congregation in the middle Iraq and they can see how well their 1st Amendment rights will get them there.

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  55. I believe that the first amendment does give you freedom of speech. but only to a certain extent.The first amenedment also allows you to practice religion but i dont think they should go that far like in this matter. in this case i think it is an invasion of the Snyders privacy but i dont think the family should of gone that far getting so much money out of it. Cementaries are public unless owned by a private company. then the people cant protest there. If they both have rights, here the majority outweighs the minority it always does.

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  56. I think they should not be able to disrespect a funeral. Especially for a person of a family who gave his life for our country. It is very wrong, they should not have to mess with their free speech and rights.

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  57. This should not be allowed. They were causing violence and riots against themselves so the first amendment shouldn't even apply to their speech. They can believe whatever they want but there has to be limitations on how you express those beliefs.
    Sloan Per. 3
    Bauer Per. 4

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  58. Joeylee Maimone, Sloan 4
    I honestly think those people are effin crazy!! Who does that? I find what they are doing extremely disrespectful towards a lot of people. It's one thing to believe something but to express it in such a negative way is wrong. They shouldn't have the right to do that and I think the states that banned protesting at funerals was totally the right thing to do. Free speech should only go so far but not as nearly as far as these twack jobs took it. Hopefully my selected vocabulary is appropriate...

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  59. they do have the right to protest and practice their religion but to a certain point for example when they were kicking arournd the american flag and also harassing other religions well they should just loose their right or just make the right a little more strict . they were also taking things way too far and when they broke the window those people should have just gotten kicked out of the street , and the thing about the funeral wasjust realy messed up and that were those people drew the line and should have stoped.

    ricardo villalpando
    pr5
    mr. sloan

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  60. i believe that the people have the right to protest, however the families of the vets have the right to kick the protestors out of cemetaries.

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  61. I completely agree with Amber, and how "the supreme court should rule to limit the first amendment rights for a peaceful funeral". It's highly unethical and incredibly disrespectful to disrupt a ceremony meant for grieving and lost. Such protests are inappropriate and this is obviously a stature of hate speech. No one should have the right to interfere with the beliefs of others, no matter what the case is.

    Sloan, P/2
    Ap Econ

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  62. Under the constitution the church has the right to say whatever they want about their religious beliefs. I do think that the government should stop them from protesting at peoples' funerals and I did see on the video that they were breaking windows. No violence should be allowed.

    Haran Piggee
    Mr. Slaon
    period 5

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  63. Jason Lowery, Bauer 1October 14, 2010 at 9:52 PM

    I believe that that church has the right to freedom of speech but yes protesting at someones funeral is wrong. What this church is missing is that the bible also said love thy neighbor as thyself

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  64. Sarah Richter, Bauer, Period 5October 14, 2010 at 9:53 PM

    I think that since the first amendment is freedom of speech that us americans should be allowed to say anything we want at any giving time. People need to relize that protesting at funerals is going to far, someone has lost a loved one and there going to stand there n yell?? no thats not ok, what if it was their family?? To the parents teaching there kid to say things so foul to the public is very wrong. All people need to relize what there saying or goin to protest about because to other people its not ok and im pretty sure they wouldnt like if people were protesting to them about somthing they cared about.

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  65. karina ramos mr sloan period 1

    i believe that all people should have the right to protest. but protest should not be allowed at a funeral. a funeral is a sad time in which a family member or friend is lost and this is like an invasion of peace and it is also disrespectful.
    everybody has different beliefs we all not going to agree to something. i believe these protest are an example of hate speeches and this could cause a distraction to society and might cause a fight because of the words and sayingsand signs that they use.

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  66. Sergio Maldonado, Sloan p.3/Bauer p.4October 14, 2010 at 9:55 PM

    They should not have Freedom of Speech in this occasions because they are bothering people that do not want to be bothered. The first ammendment allows them to say this, but they shouldn't because they are being offensive, while a family is grieving for their deceased family member or friend. Although cementaries are public, the funeral service is private, so they shouldn't be able invade this private occasion.

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  67. break a window get in trouble
    jordan elzie per 2 sloan

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  68. Brian Magina, Sloan P.3October 14, 2010 at 10:13 PM

    I Believe that people should have the right to the first Amendment, but in this case it should not apply. A family should have the right to their own privacy especially in a grieving moment like this one. Freedom speech is allowed in my eyes, but not when it is being offensive like in this case.

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  69. The first amendment about free speech and religion etc are not necessarily limited. We are free to believe in what we want and express it but this should not interrupt or disrespect other peoples beliefs. Especially when in a private service all disruptions should not be allowed.

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  70. In this case i dont think this should be considered free speech becasue it harrases and offends many people not just the homo-sexuals.

    -Ivan Cardenas
    Mr. Sloan Per. 3

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  71. I believe this qualifies as hate speech and isn't quite nice toward grieving families. I surely believe that it would inpire violence or riots. They do have freedom of speech but i believe they are crossing the line by saying those things and especially at the place they do it at. Sure a cemetary is public property but they would need a permit to protest on it and it shouldn't be allowed because it disrupts the people there violating the time, place, and manner regulations.

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  72. i am disgusted from this video. i can't believe that they think it is right to harass a group of people like that especially at a funeral. in the 1st amendment it allows you to believe in any religion and to have freedom of speech. but i think they should also have some sort of respect and manner. that to me was like a hate crime.
    erika oropeza
    mr.sloan p.4

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  73. i feel that the way in which they spoke was against the 1st amandment. they should not be able to bring on hatred. they were speaking for others.
    kimberlie hernandez
    sloan
    p.4

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  74. it is legal for the people to protest whatever they want but sometimes they go to far. sometimes it is just a matter of respect. people come to a cemetery to respect others not to watch a protest. this is supposed to be a church expressing their views, but what they are doing is considered offensive by many. a legal protest is perfectly fine, but sometimes it is just disrespectful to day certain things at certain places at certain times. and then to be teaching young children that because someone is different that they should "go to hell", is an example of "going to far"

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  75. I believe that if they want to protest it is their right, but there limitations on the time and place that they can do such actions. Obviously, a funeral is not something that should be protested for the simple fact that someone has died and the family and friends shouldn't be bothered. People get offended by this, but the same way that the protesters have the right to speak, bystanders have the right to ignore. What i also disaproved on was the kids' involment in the matter. Their kids are too young to understand the vocabulary that thet use in protests. This was obvious when the reporter asked the two boys for the definiton of a certain word they always use, yet they did not know what it meant.

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  76. Emily Geiszler, Bauer, AP Gov Period 4October 14, 2010 at 10:53 PM

    I believe that those people should be ashamed of themselves. How could they go around saying that God hates everyone when they have no idea how he may feel. They do not decide who gets to be loved or hated. They say the troops that are getting killed while serving the country are being punished for things. They said they are being punished for fornication when all people do it at some point. Those hypocrites were put on this earth the same way everyone else was, fornication. So that would mean that God hates them as well, but they don't seem to see that. God just finds a way to hate everyone but them. And picketing at a funeral, have some integrity and respect for yourself and others. That is downright rude and offensive. I would go as far as to say it is inhumane, the people are greiving and they're standing there yelling at them that God hates them. Maybe if someone pickets at a funeral for their child, they might understand how it feels. Those people said that your parenst either raise you to be a child of God, or a child of the devil. I have some news for them, they are the children of the devil. What they are doing is not for God in any way, shape, or form.

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  77. people have the right to speak their mind and if these people believe that the soldiers are gonna go to hell than thats their opinion but also knowing that a family is hurt from a loss of a loved one they should try to understand that the best thing to do is not protest at funerals and tell the family members of the soldiers rude things in other words if a protester died and the families of the soldiers went to their funeral saying that the dead protester was going to hell for interrupting the soldiers funeal with remarks that were not nessesary. feelings get hurt and in this case its not about how the protesters think and there view on religion they have to sit and that at that time a family is going threw such a thing they should have some respect for the dead human and not go and make a scene at the persons funeral. all humans have different viewon life and sometimes its better to shut up if nothing good is gonna come out of anyones mouth. i believe that people should treat eachother how they would like to be treated and have respect for others feelings yet not everyone sees things the same but if people went out saying everything that comes in there head the world would be a different place people would be hurt and theres things that people are better not knowing at all.the admendments protect our speech religion and other things but not peoples feelings.


    melissa lomeli
    p.5 sloan

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  78. i cannot believe that this is considered acceptable. these people have crossed way too many lines; invasion of privacy, hate speech, putting down other religions, etc. not only are they preaching a terrible message, but theyre doing so at the most offensive venues! people at funerals are trying to find closure and these people are not only making that impossible, but they are making the family and friends of the deceased even more troubled. this clip bothered me not only for the speech but the fact that there is a possibility that the Supreme Court will rule in their favor because of the first amendment. and those children? they did not even know who to hate, but they just knew they had to. and the little girl singing that song? she could barely talk, yet she can sing hateful songs. these people are crazy and i sincerely hope the Supreme Court does not allow the first amendment to protect them. this type of speech should never be allowed. they kicked the American Falg on the ground! they should have no right to the first amendment and they thoroughly disgust me.

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  79. We all have freedom of speech, but this is more like harassment. Their actions are offensive to many, and they should learn to respect everyone's different beliefs.

    Guadalupe Velasquez
    Sloan, Period 1

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  80. Wow, that was disgusting. As much as I want to say that these people should be prosecuted and have their first amendment rights suspended due to their gross misuse of freedom, that would do more harm than good. This is because if the government took away this one group's rights, it would undermine the authority of the Bill of Rights thus threatening the basic rights and freedoms of all Americans. However, certain restrictions could be placed on the crazy family's actions-like can't they be prevented from protesting at funerals based on indecency or disturbing the peace? When dealing with such touchy issues, we must be careful not to over address one problem and think too short term, otherwise we create an abundance of new problems in laws that will take generations to reverse.

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  81. Josh Agans, Bauer P.5October 14, 2010 at 11:30 PM

    I totally agree with tyler and maria. i dont care if the first amendment gives you the right for free speech. you dont disrespect people like that. they are extremely bitter over their loss and now they have todeal with that? that isnt right. i do believe people have the right to believe in what they want, but not during a funeral. that is a time for commemoration and praise, not harassment of religion.

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  82. These people are more like a cult than a religion. They have brainwashed their children and now they don't stand a chance. CPS should take their children away. They have taught their children to hate and be judgemental.
    Psalm 1:1
    "Blessed is the man
    who does not walk in the counsel of the
    wicked
    or stand in the way of sinners
    or sit in the seat of mockers."
    Maybe the Phelps family overlooked this passage but in the bible, that they say they base their beliefs in, it says not to stand in the way of sinners or mock people. Is that not exactly what the protests are doing?
    Free speech is limited. You cannot verbally harass people in the workplace. why not further restrict free speech? The Phelps are so disrespectful that they are causing turmoil and some violence. I am shocked that people put up with any amount of their hate speech.

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  83. To add on to that, it should be the local government that deals with these people, that way it would not put pressure on the Bill of Rights to make exceptions for other issues as well.

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  84. :O
    That is my face right now because I am honestly in shock. I am so appalled that there are people like this in the world and that they are teaching this to their young children and making more people like this!!
    Yes these actions take away the rights of others...like the right to peacefully mourn a loved one! I would imagine this could definitely inspire riots or violence; I would be furious if these people came to one of my loved one's funerals and said such awful things. Its none of their business.
    I'm going to stop writing now because I'm way to mad to make any sense...
    Kassie Lizama
    Sloan p2

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  85. I think thatwhat they didwas wrong and that when it comes to that kind of extream protest that the rules should be enforced.

    richard Manzo
    pr.5

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  86. I believe that they do have the first admendment to protect them. Even if they are wrong.
    although if their rallies inspire violence which it seems it does then i think that it may violate the first admendment.

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  87. What the protestors did in the video was awful, but we do have the freedom to assemble and protest. But this assembly has to be peaceful, and I'm not sure if the protestors acted was very peaceful. They need to learn to respect others, but the 1st amendment doesn't necessarily say that the protests need to be peaceful. The protestors didn't physically hurt anyone, so it might be protected under the first amendment. But, I believe that this kind of harsh, disrespectful protest should be against the law.

    Mr. Sloan
    Period 5

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  88. I belive that these people shouldn't go out and say things like this, but it is their right under the first amendment to express their freedom of speech. They should be able to speak what they believe, no matter how vulgar it is. The point where the 1st amendment stops protecting them should be when they start hurting others, or starting riots and things like that. This is when the law should step in.

    Zach Mietz

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  89. I believe that they do have the right under the 1st amendment, no matter how wrong their words and actions are. I don't believe that it's respectful to anyone when they say all that stuff, and doing those types of things shouldn't be legal at all and they should be punished for protesting and disrupting funerals. Funerals for soldiers is something that should be given respect, not dumb brainwashed people protesting all through the whole funeral.
    -Period 2, Sloan

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  90. I don't believe the first amendment protects the right of the protestors to be disrespectful to fallen soliders because the soldiers are the ones fighting for the country that the protestors live in.
    Sloan
    period 5

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  91. I believe that everyone should have the right of speech. Those people have the right to protest.
    America is a free Country and freedom to it. so why not protest. Every religion has the rights

    Sania Bacha
    Mr Bauer
    Period 3.

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  92. People do have the right of free speech, but what they did in this case was really wrong. Protesting at a funeral is just very unacceptable. There are certain limits to things you should do, in this case protesting at a funeral is just crossing the line.

    Jasmine Singh
    Mr.Bauer
    Period 3

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  93. I am shocked. I had heared about this a while back but i can't believe its still going on. According to the first amendment the church group has the right to express their hate. I think the only way to fix this for now is to get a law passed by congress or every state on the state level. The law would state that no protests should be done at a cementary while a ceremony or burrial is occuring. Other wise i don't know what will happen. I am currious to see what will be done if anything.

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  94. opps I'm in Mr. Bauers class 4th period.

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  95. The 1st amendment specifically mentions "peaceably to assemble"
    To what i see, they approach violence often, and at times cross into it.

    in regard to chanting at a funeral, i think it is within their rights to do so.

    Is it rude? definitely.

    But, this goes beyond government law and regulations. I disagree with their actions, but i know where they are coming from. To a christian, what the Bible says overrides any law made by the government. According to the Bible you are to obey the law of the land, except for when it crosses God's word.
    Romans 13:1 Obey the laws
    Acts 5:27-29 obey God over man.
    i suspect that even if there were laws against this, they would not stop, because they think they are doing God's will.

    Their message is wrong, and the way they are preaching it is definitely wrong from a biblical stand point.
    Caleb J. Newman

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  96. Wow I can't believe how someone has the mind to even stand up and say that especially at a funeral! I do believe that everyone has the right to a freedom of speech and speak of theire beliefs but everyone should know when and where to begin there speach. I suppose these people didn't think it through. Protesting at a funeral is a wrong thing to do, families already suffer a lost and i don't think they need another problem to go along with the loss. I'm sure what these people did wasn't something god would be proud of

    Karen Villasenor
    Mr.Bauer
    Econmics per:2

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  97. Bryana Zamarripa Bauer p3October 16, 2010 at 7:21 PM

    those protestors do have the right of free speech. i dont think that they should be allowed to protest at cemetaries, it is very rude and disturbing. i dont like the fact they are protesting against gay people but it is just their opinion.
    Bryana Zamarripa
    Bauer p3

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  98. Emily Staab Bauer Per 2October 16, 2010 at 7:56 PM

    I think these people are being down right rude! If there son/daughter/father/mother died fighting for this country and this absurdness happened to them, they would feel the exact same way! I think that the first ammendment is a good thing, but there a limits and lines that should not be crossed, and these people crossed those lines. I think that these people should have some respect to not protest at a funeral, at least.

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  99. Even though these people are protected by freedom of speech I strongly believe that what was done was unnecessary especially at a funeral, it was extremely disrespectful and that wasn't needed especially for those at the funeral that were grieving..

    Christina Luna
    Bauer P.1

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  100. I think these people are being really rude. I cant believe they said all this right at the funeral. Everyone has the freedom of sppech which is amendement one but that doesnt mean you get to disrespect the people that live or are around you everyday. This was extremely disrespectful and rude.

    Jaskiran Kaur
    Mr. Bauer
    Period 2

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  101. Alexis Watson Bauer 3October 16, 2010 at 11:26 PM

    Though you may have the ability and privledge to speak your opinions through the first amendment does not mean you should say it. Ethics are just as important as speach.

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  102. I honestly believe that everyone does have the right of freedom of speech but the constitution does not apply to this. For instance if you were the priest to a church why would you publicize a cruel announcement live and offend others when it's your thoughts and opinions as no one would want to hear them which i personally think that they should be kept to themselves. This is a disrespectul message that was sent out and that not protect the constitution rights.

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  103. Jacob Farrar
    Bauer 4th
    Wow, what a bunch of no lifers, i mean seriously, there brother and syter just trying to get attnchen in this world and i am not going to give it to them. They have the right to free speech but you alwase need to be respectful. if i was at the funeral and saw them i would go over there and force them to leave one way or the other. you do not be disrespectful liek that. i also think that they contrubut nothing to better the USA making them worthless. i hate worthless people.

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  104. The first amendment gives us the right of free speech and i believe everyone should have the right to free speech. But this case was simply wrong. Especially because it was at a funeral. That is not right, and they should not have done that. The cemeteries are not a place for protesting.
    Stephanie A
    Mr.Sloan
    Per.4

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  105. In my opinion i would not appreciate protesters at a funeral it would be dissrespectful an plain out rude for someone to do that an to have the nerve. Yes they do have freedom of speech but they went a little to far with words.
    Aniscia. Silva. Sloan. Per5.

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  106. Nathalie Trevino; A. Bauer period1October 17, 2010 at 6:28 PM

    I am completely ok with the church saying whatever they believe, thats fine; whatever they say and believe should be protected by their first amendment rights. However, there is a time and place to express certain feelings and a funeral is most certainly not the place to be protesting. Their actions are extremely disrespectful to the families who are trying to mourn.

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  107. I believe that the first amendment is a wonderful thing, it makes our nation different from others; but when people like phelps abuse it, something needs to be done. He and his followers have the right, but they need to be respectful to the families. Something should be done to stop it, it's just wrong.
    Frandreezy
    Bauer.

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  108. They should not have the right to do this in a funeral because its disrespect. This church cross the line and they should not be given the right to express themselve.
    Jonathan Ramos
    Mr. Bauer
    Economics

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  109. this church is definitely crossing the line. they are giving religion a bad face. respect, in this case, should come before these people's personal belief.
    whether or not these people chose to believe what they believe, and even say it for that matter, is rightfully protected, but just like nathalie said, there is a time and a place for everything. and that time and place is not during a funeral!

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  110. I have actually experienced this group first hand. I went to the San Diego Comic Con this past summer, and they were there protesting it all four days. They did not step onto the premises, but they did make it so that if you wanted to cross the street to get to the shuttle busses or hit the local subway, you had to press through them. Mostly they accused us of "Worshipping false idols". In all honesty, though you only really needed to listen to the advice of "When people go fishing, don't bite" and they wouldn't really bother you all that much.

    While I disagree with their message and feel that their way of getting it out there is totally counter-productive, they have the right to say whatever they want. Making laws against them will one day block us into a corner when someone is trying to get attention for a real issue in our society.

    We are lucky to have the Patriot Guard Members to protect the grieving families from the protesters and let them have their funerals in peace. Sure, it'd be nice if they did not have to gather to form that barrier, but I'm just saying that for all the displays of hatred, a greater force of love and compassion will break it down.

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  111. Oops, that last comment was
    Sasha Schotzko-Harris
    Bauer P.1

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  112. Justin Tyler, Bauer, p.3October 19, 2010 at 9:55 PM

    I could not believe that they had the nerve to chant those things and it bothers me that they have the right to do what they are doing. Imagine being at your sons funeral and all you here are these people yelling thank god he is dead. I dont even think I could sit there and listen I would end up being so disturbed and angered. I do not think that is right and they are so stubborn they do not care what anyone has to say.

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  113. People do have the right of free speech, but what they did in this case was really wrong. Protesting at a funeral is just very unacceptable. There are certain limits to things you should do, in this case protesting at a funeral is just crossing the line.
    Guadalupe Campos
    Per.4
    Mr.Sloan

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  114. I beleive in freedom of speach but waht these extremist are protesting is just absurd. They say very hatefull words that are just rude. it shows what kind of person they are. It is sad how they brainwash their children. The kids who were being interviewed did not know the meaning of the word fag, which is a hurtfull word to others. Those kids were just going off their parents hatefull teachings

    In the case of Snyder and Phelps i think speach should be limited on what they say. if it displays hate then it should not be allowed. Espeacially if it is at a families funeral for their loved ones.

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  115. i think they should be able to say what ever they want, because its also freedom or relion and believe on what ever you want. and if people get offended then ignore it, and dnt get to butt-hurt about it. its not like tll ruin the peoples life or anything. expressing how they feel about religion inst illegal

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  116. Michael Freeman Per 5 SloanDecember 13, 2010 at 9:07 PM

    I believe that they do have a right to protest a war and the men and women that die for them, but what they do is too far. I don't think that it is right to protest at a passing of a person. It is not classy and I can consider it a hate crime. It is also effecting the family of the victims, so I think that should automatically make it illegal.

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  117. These people are definetely overusing the right of free speech. This video absolutely digusted me..its soo sad that those children are brainwashed by their ignorant parents..The Phelps' are so set in their ways and soo stubborn that they wont change their mind about being soo upfront and rude with the things they are saying.. They definetely should pay the 11 million and shut their mouths because anyone that has the nerve to sit in front of a funeral and say " thank god he is dead"..are clearly not of god...hypocrites...

    Danielle Barros
    Sloan p.4

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  118. Vicente Chavez
    Sloan per 5th
    I think that this is not good and it is wrong because a persons funeral shouldn't be ruined because this is the time when family and friends pay their last respects to the diseased and there shoud be privacy for this and i think that what they do is not right.

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  119. enrique salazar sloanper5December 15, 2010 at 3:51 PM

    although the first amendment protects freedom of speech i believe it should protect it only to a certain extent

    ReplyDelete

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