There is a city block crowded with people around on an afternoon in March. A chilly wind blows, the trees still barren of their leaves. It’s an unusual day for such a large group to be hanging about, but it’s all for an important reason. There is a battle of beliefs happening on this crowded street, on this March afternoon.
On one side of the street reads a group of signs:
“GOD HATES FAGS”
“GOD HATES AMERICA”
On the opposite side is yet more signs:
“FREE HUGS”
“THANK GOD FOR LOVE”
“DONATE TO THE WORLD AIDS FUND”
The battle continues - loud but nonviolent - into the night.
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One of the ugliest things that I believe exist in this world is bigotry. Many people may have heard about the Westboro Baptist Church, a hate group led until 2014 by Fred Phelps. They spread their hateful message evangelically through protests of funerals, concerts and other public events with hateful slogans. In 2010, a group of Westboro protesters conducted a tour of Chicago to spread their message. Many of the surrounding citizens were uncomfortable or mocking or ignored the protesters all together.
Out of this horrible situation however, was a bit of silver lining. Across the street, with their own makeshift signs and slogans, was a counter-protest group boasting free hugs and love for all. UIC student Jason Connell used the appearance of the hate group to raise money for queer rights groups such as Human Rights Campaign, International AIDS Foundation and Chicago based Jerusalem Open House. The donations were named in honor of the Westboro Baptist Church and community thank you cards were sent from the non-profits to Westboro leader Fred Phelps.
Since this event, many people have found ways to use the publicity of the WBC for good causes. There have been counter-protests to promote fundraisers and veritable strangers coming together to let the group know that they are not welcome.
Though the WBC spew hate and bigotry everywhere they go, good things can come from these events. When faced with hate, people tend to band together and unite as a community against the threat. In an effort to counter evil, people go out of their way to put more good in the world.
