Westboro Baptist Church’s absurd notions of humanity are readily evident, in both word and picture, in Joanie Eppinga’s interview of researcher Rebecca Barrett-Fox (“The Face of Hate,” June 2012). If “God Hates America,” as is pictured in the Westboro sign on the cover of the issue, then does this mean that God loves Poland or Lithuania instead? Does God’s allegiance change daily, favoring America on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and then a different country on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays?
Barrett-Fox tries to put a human face on a group of hatemongers. It is easy to see why no members of Westboro were interviewed for the piece. Their hatred for humanity can only breed more hatred, and it must be wondered whether anything good could arise from such an ideology.
Although it may rankle many, the Topeka church does enjoy the same freedom of speech as the rest of the masses in America. However, now that they have expressed themselves (although many would say that they exposed themselves), it is time to focus upon issues that really matter in this country: an end to hunger, a reduction in poverty, and building a sustainable infrastructure that values the human being, ensuring opportunities for all in a truly egalitarian fashion.
Robert P. Russo
Perrysburg, Ohio
Got something to say about what you're reading? We value your feedback!