On October 28, about several dozen Fresno residents stood against hate. The community came together to shield Roosevelt High School students from the Westboro Baptist Church (WBC). Southern Poverty Law Center, a civil rights organization, stated that WBC “is arguably the most obnoxious and rabid hate group in America.”
The Westboro Baptist Church (WBC) is known for traveling across the U.S., bringing its "picketing ministry" to public events and gatherings they view as contrary to their religious beliefs. The group often displays signs with inflammatory messages targeting various communities, particularly the LGBTQ+ community, with slogans like “God Hates [slur]” and “Thank God for AIDS.” Recently, according to The Fresno Bee, WBC members appeared at Roosevelt High School, which they claimed symbolizes public education systems “teaching children to reject God.”
However, the small group of WBC protestors was far outnumbered by LGBTQ+ community members and allies, who came prepared with rainbow umbrellas and supportive signs. The umbrellas were used to shield students from the offensive language on WBC’s signs, creating a barrier of pride and solidarity.
Fresno educator Margarita, who learned about the protest through uSpark’s Instagram, drove to Roosevelt High School to show her support for the school’s faculty and students.
“There was a real sense of support and community among all of us. I was standing with a big group of teachers, and I feel like the signs said it all,”said Margarita.
Photos by Margarita
“Yesterday, October 28, 2024, the Westboro Baptist Cult attempted to protest love, under the guise of God, outside of Roosevelt High School in Fresno, CA. Unfortunately for them, Fresno showed up, proud and spreading love, leaving no room for their hate. What an honor it was to capture queer joy and allyship in the face of intolerance," Mars Santos told uSpark.
Mars documented the day with her camera and posted her photos on her Instagram's photography page, Ironicsaintphotos. She captured unique raw moments.
People showing their support for the Queer community and students. Photo by Mars Santos.
The WBC group appeared overwhelmed by the large turnout of counter-protesters and was eventually seen departing the scene, followed closely by pro-LGBTQ+ signs and rainbow umbrellas.
Counter-protestors confronting a member of the WBC (pictured left) and rainbow umbrellas shielding students from WBC signs (pictured right). Photos by Mars Santos.
