On Oct. 3, a massive demonstration mobilized in Columbus, Ohio to protest the Westboro Baptist Church. Notorious for their rabidly bigoted and racist signs, WBC claimed to be protesting the acceptance of LGBT students and staff on campus outside the Ohio Union on Ohio State University campus. Dozens of progressive, support and community groups mobilized to oppose their message of hatred.
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Over 1,000 students came from across the city, including from Ohio State, Columbus State Community College, Capital University and the outlying areas. The protest promoted an environment of acceptance and support for the LGBT community in the face of the bigoted WBC. There were only 4 WBC members promoting their hateful message in the face of the massive community mobilization.
Members and supporters of the Party for Socialism and Liberation stood resolute in supporting the LGBT community at the protest. PSL candidate for Ohio State Representative (District 22), Corey Ansel and over a dozen campaign volunteers distributed hundreds of fliers promoting the socialist campaign that demands full marriage rights and equality for all LGBT people.
“The Westboro Baptist Church’s need for attention backfired when they attracted hundreds of counterprotesters that stand for equality like the Ansel campaign,” said Tony Mead, a student at Capital University and a campaign volunteer. “We spread the word and quelled the hate. It was a good day for the struggle.”
Protesters were very receptive to the campaign, with many members of the media asking questions and requesting interviews. Campaign volunteers told members of the crowd that the elections were not the only way to promote equality. What is needed is a massive mobilization of progressive people in the streets fighting for equality.
The PSL stands against all forms of bigotry and racism. We stand with the community and we will militantly oppose the Westboro Baptist Church’s bigotry wherever it shows its face.
