LBPOST.com: Update With Video: Long Beach Wilson High Students Drown Out Anti-Gay Protestors

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Update With Video: Long Beach Wilson High Students Drown Out Anti-Gay Protestors

by Ryan ZumMallen | Long Beach News | 02.20.10 |

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UPDATE 10:30am Saturday | Below we provide a short video of yesterday's counter-protest at Wilson High School opposing demonstrators from the Westboro Baptist Church. The first portion of the video is shot by LBPOST.com managing editor Ryan ZumMallen and the second portion was sent to the LBPOST.com by WBC demonstrator Megan Marie.

LBPOST.com columnist Sander Wolff also provides an audio file from yesterday's event, which you can open by clicking here.

*

5:00pm Friday | Thousands of Wilson High students staged a peaceful rally against a handful of anti-gay protestors outside their campus this afternoon.

Demonstrators from the Westboro Baptist Church in Kansas planned to stage an anti-gay demonstration outside the campus but were drowned out by the peaceful but spirited cries from students that spilled into the streets under police supervision.

"They wanted to make the school proud," said Wilson High co-principal Sandy Blazer. "It was a nice, peaceful day considering we had 4,500 kids out here. I knew they would protest hate in a respectful way."

LBUSD Superintendent Chris Steinhauser was also on hand.

"The kids and others that came did a great job of passive resistance," he said. "It was a great day where Long Beach came out to say that hatred is not in the heart of this community."

We'll have much more to come, and if you've got photos of your own, feel free to send them to ryan@lbpost.com!

In addition, many people have commented that not all people from Kansas feel as the Westboro Baptist Church does. As a Wichita native, I could not agree more. Go Jayhawks!

Related Coverage

Thoughts On A Protest
Photos & A Message From The Westboro Baptist Church
Councilmembers Garcia & Schipske Denounce Westboro Baptist Church Anti-Gay Protest
Long Beach Dilemma: Protest Or Ignore The Gay Hate?

Click here to read our policy on covering the Long Beach City Council.

Councilmember Robert Garcia waves goodbye to Westboro Baptist Church protestors as they drive away from Wilson High School with students chanting "Long Beach!" around them.

Photo submitted by Ron Sylvester. View the rest of his photos here.

Photo submitted by Ron Sylvester. View the rest of his photos here.

Photo submitted by Valerie Kelly from an earlier protest at Redondo & Willow.

Photo submitted by Valerie Kelly from an earlier protest at Redondo & Willow.

Photo submitted by j mello

Photo submitted by j mello

Photo submitted by Wilson High sophomore Nick Koreivo

Photo submitted by Wilson High sophomore Nick Koreivo

Photo submitted by Wilson High sophomore Nick Koreivo

Photo submitted by Annie Parkhurst (with yellow sign)

Photo submitted by Megan Marie

Photo submitted by Matt Sun. Click here to view the rest of his photos.

Photo submitted by Krystina Shattles (right) with sister Madison (left).

Photo submitted by Wilson student Kendall Moran

Photo submitted by Wilson student Kendall Moran

WARNING: Just a quick reminder that, again, profanity is not allowed in the Comments section. Thank you.

Comments

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245 Comments so far.

Joe in LB
WILSON ROCKS! I was at what amounted to the ANTI-PROTEST and you know those poor souls from Kansas did Long Beach a favor...they brought out the best in the community...hundreds of students and community memebers vs. maybe 10 Kansas people...it was more of an affirmation of our young people and their values than the values of a few poor misguided hate mongers! WILSON STUDENTS ROCKED!!! Thank you for showing the best of Long Beach!

???
Why aren't these kids in class where they belong?

Se Reed
This is so awesome. I'm so proud of my city!!!!!

I love a good protest!
it was fantastic to see the young people out against hate. A student said to me, "do these people really hate gays and jews? why?" They have to see the hate for themselves.

liz
Beautiful!

danny b
I'm so proud of these kids for standing up against hate and ignorance without becoming hateful themselves. The students and the many other folks who joined them in support of respect, reason, equality, and love, showed so much class, humor, intelligence, creativity, and tolerance, it was inspiring! The message was that Long Beach stands for diversity, freedom, and humanity - and when haters come to town, we will call you out. Made me extra-proud to live here. Thanks to all who came down to speak your minds.

LB Local
Good Job Wilson! I am so proud of all of you.

kj
great job lil bruins. and school was not in session. kids got out at 1:10 and 2:50

Jacqueline
These kids had the best lesson ever today. It shows not all things learned are not always in the classroom. These kids are awesome! Good for you!

Annie in LB
Dear ??? These kids are where they should be - showing that LB will not put up with hate. They are stopping the HATE and stopping discrimination - which is exactly what they should be doing!!!! WELL DONE WILSON STUDENTS!!!

LBNATIVE
@ ??? Get your facts straight before you post something stupid...SCHOOL WAS OVER! The freaks from WBC planned their "protest" just as school was let out.

LIZ VIELMAS
THATS MY SCHOOL RIGHT THERE!! :D

Heather
WONDERFUL job Wilson! I fully agree with Joe. Sometimes it takes awful situations to bring out the best in people. And for the person who didn't even leave their name, sometimes there are bigger things than class.

LZ VIELMAS
also.. we knew that violence isnt always the way to go.. so we used signs vs. signs:)

Maya Chinchilla
Very proud of my Alma Mater today. You inspire me!

PROUD OF LB
What a great city! united we stand united we fall...sounds corny but this last pic gave me the chills!! what to go LB and Wilson HS students and teachers as well.

G in LB
This is a great show of solidarity against the darker side of human nature. It makes me proud of you and to live in LB!

SPArkle
THat WASz so HEcuhh A BOmb.... GO WILSON....

Alix
Makes me so proud of these students! Hate is not welcome anywhere!

kay elle W
I was there and i'm a wilson alumn. i've never been so proud to be from wilson. That school is really something that words can't explain, it's literally a huge family and we know how to get together and stand up for whats right. They went to the wrong school or the right one depending on how you look at it. GO BRUINS!!

IM SO PROUD
As a student at wilson, i am so proud to have been a part of this! it was so thrilling and it felt great. I'm the one holding up a poster that says "hi mom" on it. xD in in there 3 times!

OM
So proud of our community and our students!!! Go HOME Haters from Kansas.

Steve
So proud to live in Long Beach!!!

Angel
I am very proud of our youth for such a well organized peaceful demonstration! Hate has no place in Long Beach or anywhere else for that matter. Our youth are demonstrating that they are not going to just sit back and allow ingnorance and hate to invade THEIR SCHOOL OR THEIR CITY! GO FUTURE LEADERS!

I love LB
I'm so proud to live in Long Beach. This warms my heart!

Carol D
I graduated from Wilson almost 40 years ago. I couldn't be prouder of my fellow Bruins!

whs studenttt
dear "???" these kids were not in class because this was after school got out. get over yourself.

Loui
"If God Hates Fags then why are we so cute?" haha i'm so proud of my school and the Long Beach community; being part of the gay community I never realized how many people would really give support to this cause and I say thank you to all of you. We showed them what Long Beach is about.

wilson student
We were in school the protest was after school but even if it was during school, we would have learned more out there fighting for what we believed in then in a classroom. I also want to say that students from other schools were there as well as people from throughout Long Beach that should be thanked for their support.

Cam
Great job guys! I'm so proud of my Bruin!!! (And thanks for the shout out with the "Hi Mom" poster, honey!) I love and support you...so glad to see you passing love, support and understanding onto others!! Xo

Wilson Teacher
I'm so proud of our students. I echo danny b's sentiments. Our kids used humor, creativity, just enough outrageousness, and best of all, good judgement in their protest. When people start saying, "What's wrong with kids today?" all you have to do is look at our kids' reaction in the face of hate, and see that these kids are doing all right. Way to Go. IT'S A GREAT DAY TO BE A BRUIN.

Mr. Dibbs
Stay strong kids. This is great to see. Love is stronger than hate. Hey ??? - These kids are learning more by taking action for what they believe than being in class. Sorry.

Glenn Aoncillo
GO Bruins! I'm so proud of you!!!

Wilson Teacher
So proud of my students! As a Long Beach Local and a Wilson Alumni - I truly appreciate the class and power you guys all displayed today! you are awesome!!! Thank you!

Sam
LONG BEACH STUDENTS - You guys ROCK. What a GOOD spirit, and POSITIVE impression you made. I'm really proud of you. Classy, standup job!

Proud Wilson Student
I attend Wilson and it was amazing how the school reacted. Every one was participating in an anti-Westboro protest surrounding the Westboro "church" members. Many had counter attack signs saying things like "free pizza", "look up", and "annex the moon!" The whole event turned into a display of how diverse and supportive Wilson is. I was surrounded by other students from every walk of life, race, religion, and sexual orientation. The feeling of the crowd was unity and peace. Did we want them there? Hell no, but we did what we could to get the message across that we are very much anti-hate and their insane ideals are not welcome at our school. I am very proud to be a Wilson student today. Go Bruins! And Go Gays!

Patti Zieg
I'm so proud of the kids who stood up for love and peace. We are not on this planet to judge anyone. We are here to be the best we can be and to help others. I recognized some of the faces out there today and it warmed my heart. I am proud of Wilson HIgh and I'm proud to be an alumni.

Diane Wiley
I am so hugely proud of Wilson High School students...they are the best of the best and a class act all the way!!!

Hope
This is why I love Long Beach. As a former teacher, this was an excellent teachable moment. I would have had my students out there during school hours. Way to go Wilson!!!!!!

Jose
OK OK God loves Mexicans too, so lets give them amnesty

Karrie
I went to Long Beach Poly so for me to say this is a big deal...GO WILSON!! That is so amazing. Good for these amazing kids. :)

im proud of my school
DEAR KANSAS, GO HOME!! WE BLEW YOU AWAY!! GO WILSON!!!!

KK
Love it!!!...LB and Wilson HS showed WBC what it's like to bring its misguided attitudes in our backyard...I'm proud of my two kids who attend Wilson and joined the others today in a peaceful and passionate demonstration of exercising their freedom of speech...The people that I looked up to when I was growing up and who advocated for peaceful change and tolerance like Cesar Chavez, Martin Luther King Jr., and Robert Kennedy are smiling down on my new heroes today…Thanks guys!.

Aldra
Long Beach, I love you. Wilson students, you are AMAZING. My heart is so full, I might shed a tear! And a special shout out to the kids with hilarious signs--"Hi Mom!" Oh! You're beautiful. Just beautiful.

Christi
I am a Wilson High Alumni, class of 72, and I am very proud that these kids showed up and overwhelmed the haters with their messages of love and that hate is not welcome at Wilson High.

AK_LBC
Go Wilson students!!!!!!!!

why
why were those people allowed to protest near the campus? Why did they chose Wilson?

Logan
Got to hand it to the folks at Westboro for inadvertently uniting 4,500 high school students in solidarity against hate and in defense of their gay and lesbian classmates. I'm sure that's not what the good ol' folks from Kansas had in mind, but if their abhorrent presence in Long Beach is what it took to make such a fantastic display of love and acceptance possible, then thanks folks! Especially seeing this happen at the high school level, it is truly inspiring and makes me proud to live in Long Beach. ...and to those who would criticize the students' not being "in class," frankly I'd rather have my kid out in the sun with his classmates, experiencing first-hand the power of unified defiance against hatred and oppression, than in a dimly-lit room contrasting igneous and metamorphic rocks.

kd Cordes
Way to go Bruins and Long Beach. You are the best. A 1957 Wilson Grad.............

Elena
Wilson High - I LOVE YOU. You are amazing, standing up for compassion and tolerance. I was moved to tears by your courage and love. Thank you.

junior in wilson
my dad almost didn't let me come to school today because he thought things might get violent with wilson being a public school and all. however, i went to the protest and was AMAZED at how our community came together to voice our beliefs aginst people who hate for no reason. today i can say loud and clear, i am proud to be part of this amazing school. ps-i just want everyone to keep in mind that not all of Kansas is prejudiced. i was born there and lived in the city where these protestors came from (Topeka) for almost 6 years. so please dont dis a whole state just because of a few idiots.

@Jessie_Devon
LOVE THIS! Gays can speak out for gays, that is expected. But when Straights stand up for equality for all, for gays to have the RIGHTS and RESPONSIBILITIES of American citizens - change will begin.

Laurie
What an awesome thing! Spread the love..........send the haters back to Kansas. So proud of Long Beach!

UNI
YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! wilson you rule. lb we rock. hate mongers...karma will get you. peace, love, long live long beach!

Roy
As a Long Beach native who is gay I don't think I have ever been prouder of my city.. you rock Long Beach!!!

Common Sense
WBC is truely a disgrace, However they represent a very small threat to Long Beach. Today was great, but I just wish this many people would protest and get active regarding more threatening issues like ever larger Government and HUGE Government Spending!!!

Geoff Maddox
It was definitely overwhealming to see so many people, students and community members alike, joining together for such a good cause! I am honored to have stood by you! It too should be reiterated that this entire event went down without incident! Wilson, you should be REALLY proud of your school and fellow students, as TODAY, you proved to EVERYONE that it doesn't matter who you are, where you are from, or what your background, without violence or any negativity, based on your actions today, you are a school to respect! Keep up the good work, and I look forward to seeing you all again soon! Go Wilson!!!

Anonymous
Need to get these trash bags out of our city!

:)
To the person ??? It was after school smart one ! So much for a protest at Wilson, they had no idea what they were walking into. I didn't hear any of their so called "messages" , they simply wasted their time. They didn't voice their opinions, because we never gave them a chance. It was too much for those ignorant, narrow-minded jerks . They left as fast as they came. I applaud you classmates , and the city of Long Beach. We did a good job today .

F. King Alexander
Next year two of my children will enter Wilson HS and I could not be more proud of the stand the Bruin students took against hatred. There is no place for hatred of this kind in LB or even Kansas. GREAT JOB WILSON STUDENTS. GO BRUINS AND GO BEACH! President, CSULB

Joan Van Blom
Way to go, Wilson!

Shari
What a wonderful outpouring of community pride! I am proud of our students and all who came out to show respect for diversity.

AJM
Wilson students and Long Beach, I am so proud! Those pictures made me cry! If this is our next generation of leaders, I am proud to be in their hands! Go Wilson!!!

CdM Guy
Okay, I'm not feeling the love from the WBC. When they protested Corona del Mar, they only sent three people. You guys got,... what... at least five? Six? Phhh... I see how it is ;-p Seriously, good job WHS... keeping it real, and especially keeping it cool. You rock!

Elcentrogirl
So proud of Wilson High School and to be part of the Long Beach community. We do not stand for hate in our city!

Mike Wilder
this is simply amazing. when i heard about the protest that was going to be taking place i was outraged. but its great to know that everyone stepped up and put a stop to it in a non-violent manner. seeing this pretty much made my day. i would have loved to be out there along with the thousands of other students and others. makes me even prouder to be an alumni of Wilson and a Long Beach resident. GO BRUINS!

jace
so proud of them!

Terry
Congrats students!!!!... Good to see young people have better sense than alot of adults... right wing conservative christians are no more than a bunch of biggots.. in a VERY dangerous cult.... again GO WILSON High... and SHAME on you biggoted.. hateful... silly baptists!

Jerry
Those kids from Kansas need to "click their heels" and head back to Kansas. Dorthy would not proud. Being a hater is sad. Long Beach is a great place to live. Way to go Wilson High! PS- who wrote the protesters signs? The Wicked Witch of the West?

Anonymous
Solidarity!

vtesta
This was a class. They learned and accomplished more than they would in a week of regular classes. Good job, kids!

Hopeless Jim
Can we organize a similar protest against violance, gangs and drugs?

LB Lover!
Yet one more reason to love LB!...I'm Wilson Alumni, a Jew, a teacher, and a parent. My partner and I chose to move back to LB because we wanted to raise our kids in a diverse community that has respect and love for everyone. Seeing these pictures brought tears of pride and joy to my eyes. I will look forward to one day sending our kids to Wilson and feel proud to be part of this community. WAY TO GO!!!!! Thanks for representing the beauty of Long Beach...I'm so proud. :)

Chrissy 22
BEAUTIFUL

Jay From NY
Amazing! So Awesome!! I love it!

<3WCHS
This protest was after school. Long Beach Wilson CLASSical High, thats how we do it! Go Bruins! <3Sami.

Chelsea
this makes me proud, all love is equal!

C.W.
I thought the best way to handle these people was to ignore them I could not have been more wrong. The best way to handle them was to do just what the Wilson High students did. Wow! Greatd job Bruins!

joe
i am proud to call wilson my school, and long beach, my city. at first, i was reluctant to even stay, not expecting all the commotion, but i am definitely proud to have experienced all the unity, pride, and acceptance that long beach has, amen.

JoeyR
So very, very proud of Wilson High students and my city. I witnessed so much humor, kindness, and respect for humanity on display today. Thanks for the *great* experience, WBC!

sandi
These kids are great. Thank you from me in Austraila. You guys have shown me that not all Americans are small minded biggots hiding behind religon.

Hey ???
"Why aren't these kIds in class where they belong?" This moment taught them more than any class could teach in a week (and I say that as a teacher).

isa
totally badass. this is amazing.

Jill
THANK YOU Wilson HIgh students for making our entire city proud today! You are my heroes!

Rob
@??? - they aren't in class because this happened after school.

Ars Moriendi
These students were right where they did belong. Learning life lessons that no classroom can teach them. They earned the respect of their community and EVERY college application they fill out will benefit from this!! GO LBH!!!!! You guys have made me so proud to be a member of the LGBTQ community today!

K Dub
AWESOMOE job guys!! Made us proud!! LB IS for Gay Lovers!! Love it!

Adreana Langston
The WBC ARE doing God's work. God's work of bringing a diverse group of Long Beach citizen's together to show that hate mongering is intolerable. Honestly, I wonder if it is angels who speak to WBC leaders and "guide" them to go to cities that could use a little togetherness, a little civic pride, a little boosterism. Because no matter where WBC goes the counter-protest is always bigger and the after-counter-protest-message-board-comments (like the ones here) are always all cum-by-yah (sic). It's great what WBC is doing. Giving cities an excuse to show brotherly love en masse.

Dina
They learned more today during this peaceful protest than they would in any classroom!!!

Caroline
So proud of my Alma Mater! Go Bruins!!!!

Ashley
THANK YOU LONG BEACH!!!!!! as an Wilson alumni and queer, i am so honored to say im from LB. great job to all who showed up and protested against this filth.

Pixie
I am finally at peace with leaving the future of Long Beach in the hands of this next generation.

henry h
this was after school and they chose wilson because of the school having a gay-straight alliance and jew clubs, which i guess they are against. this was definitely an inspiring event, when not only the students at wilson but parts of long beach came together and literally drove this hate group out, and most importantly respectfully and full of class. go bruins

4th Street Attorney
I am so proud of these kids. I am proud of this city and of the parents of these kids for instilling values in these students.

Chatsworth
So proud of these kids!!

Anonymous
Hopeless Jim Can we organize a similar protest against violance, gangs and drugs? The laws against drugs are responsible for most of the violence and gangs, so please have the courage to protest the right things without being so black and white

ML in Missouri
These kids are not in class because some vital lessons cannot be learned from a lecture or a poem about morals, and right action. These students learned one significant lesson: if I/we do not stand up against injustice ...then where will it stop? Who will stand up for me/us? Do you think that Hitler would have gotten very far with this kind of turnout when he tried to recruit people to his racist, hate-filled campaign??

Dan
I am very proud of all the students of Wilson High to take a stand against such a hate filled church. Good for you!!

tviska
way to go Wilson!!!

Suzanne
I'm so proud of my community.

Anonymous
this was after school, therefore we did go to class, where we belong. thank you very much.

Robert Garcia
I am so proud of Wilson High and Long Beach. I am convinced that our future is going to be a bright one with these youngsters in charge.

Anonymous
they're not in class because it was after school.

Terry
These students were the teachers today. What a wonderful lesson for others to learn from their demonstration of love. I wish the kids here in Atlanta were that smart! Thank you students of Wilson!!!

WCHStudent
I was a part of this and it was SO exhilarating. Love knows no boundaries. <3

Shannon
@??? Why aren't these kids in class where they belong? They are on a field trip. Learning one of life's most valuable lessons. LOVE.

Onyx
THAT IS SO AWESOME!

Jackrabbit
Go Bruins!! This ol' Jackrabbit is proud to live in the LBC!!!

Ram, backing the Bruins
The Westboro people brought a CHILD to the protests today - and they claim WE are the tainted youth. I'm a student at Millikan High School, and I just want to let all the Wilson High School students, parents, and the community that surrounds it know they have support from the blue & gold. I was proud to stand in my navy and khakis in the sea of burgundy at 10th and Ximeno today. Westboro: You're not in Kansas anymore.

Jehva
Thats awesome!You always hear being saying negative things about the future generation but stuff like this shows that they can make changes for the better and I have confidence that they will.

Dana
Marriage is between a man and a woman.

Judy Griffith
All I have to say, is why we all cannot get along. I don't care if you are green,purple or white, Gay or straight. We are all human beings, with something special in all of us. An I am jsut tired if other peope trying to make it something it is not. What do you say. This is a big world. Give it a try. The Rat Whisperer !!

Stephen
YEAH WILSON!!!!

mig
This is exactly why I love living in Long Beach and never plan to move. Also makes me confident in my two elementary-aged kids' academic future here. You Wilson kids (and non-Wilson anti-protesters) did our town proud.

Jehva
Dana are you from Kansas?

Scott M
Amazing! Good for you guys and girlsm thankyou for standing up to those sad people, hopefully one day they will practice what they preach.

marco
This is why Long Beach is the best city in the country. We stand up for each other. We respect and welcome diversity. Being gay should not define a person's character. Being gay is not wrong. All people need to be cherished and respected for their contributions. The LBC would be a boring and vanilla place without our gay culture.

Unicorn
Why aren't those Westboro Baptist people working and at home with their families were they belong? Oh and if they brought children with them then obviously they are the ones in the wrong pulling kids out of school to drive half way across the country to spew hatred. Those Westboro people I think have God and the Devil confused. The students of Long Beach Wilson High School are great

MC
I am so proud of my kids! I have tears in my eyes!!! LOVE the signs!

Oz
Proud of Wilson student who showed Long Beach and the World, that there is NO TIME TO HATE!

whs
ahhaha get out of here

to ???
you idiot it was after school

Anonymous
we weren't in school because school was over!

Lisa
For those who want to know what the Bible really teaches. For the Wilson Students I say read Romans 1:24-27 and 32 says "consent". For those Adults I say read Roman 1:28-32 In the end, man is not the judge Math: 7:1 1 Cor: 6:9-10 1 Cor: 5:9-13 There will however be a Judgment. Heb: 4:13 Fornicators out number the gays 10,000 to 1. How will they too hide from our creator? They will not be able to. Col: 3:5-6 Prov: 28:5 The good thing is, God reads the heart. 1Sam: 16:7 Meanwhile: Let's practice Love.

abc
to answer (???) they came after school DUHHHH

Hayley
This is truly progress. When I was at Wilson for 1 year back in 1997/98 my gay friend was absolutely tortured by the other kids. Every day, all day, they would call him fag and any other cruel nickname in the book. This makes me feel so happy and proud of Long Beach. I hope this protest encourages all of the kids at Wilson and other area high schools to continue to be good to all people.

aliskye
What a wonderful thing to see! A proud moment for all these students and teachers standing up to ignorance and hate.

I Luv LB
YEAH WILSON! Thanks for giving those folks a proper send-off! You did it so eloquently! I think you made them figure out they're not in Kansas anymore....great job-so proud of you guys.

WilsonStudent
Dana- i would like to respectfully disagree with you. marraige USED to be only between a man and a woman. take a step outside and welcome the 21st century! today, marraige is just a word- and hopefully in the future it will be a right! if your not comfortable around people who love eachother (whether they be the same sex or not) then move to that church in Kansas or keep your opinions to yourself because LBC <3's GAYS!!! (also- i would just like to say that there were around 11 protestors from KS and the kid that they brought? i pity him. do you know what his shirt said? "Gad Hates Fags" what kind of a life is he going to have with that environment? his parents should be ashamed of themselves)

Anonymous
wow! The Wilson Students are fantastic. I was there and the energy was incredible. The outcome was amazing. The WBC must have looked at each other and thought, wow I guess we aren't in Kansas anymore. Well done Long Beach!!!

charlie
???: because supporting equality and rights for all humans is more important than the day's lectures.

Bart in Louisville, KY
Great Job Wilson community! Way to show peace and love without violence! Keep up the good work!

Jennie from Salt Lake Cit
For those who think the students should have been in class: This exercise will be one of the most enriching, educational lessons they could have learned; Learning through action beats any lecture. I hope young students in the future bind to promote love for all individuals and all groups of people. These will be priceless lessons.

Kendall
dana- i would like to respectfully disagree with you. marraige USED to only be between a man and a woman- step outside and say hello to the 21st century! marraige is now just a word- and hopefully will someday be a right :) and if you dont like change, then move to Kansas and join that church so you can make everyone feel horrible for being who they are. (also: there were about 10 protestors there, and that child? i pity him. do you know what his shirt said? "God Hates Fags" what kind of life is he going to have being raised in that environment? his parent(s) should be ashamed of themselves)

Millikan '09 Senior
Just wanted to say HELL YEAH!!!

millikanbaby
I loveee long beaach, I was there after school from millikan and came and supported. Long beach kicked ass against this crazy kansas people. Someone hand them their ruby red slippers so they can go homeee, :)

Caroline
The students at Wilson taught everyone a very important lesson today. There is not room for hate in any way shape or form. Great Job.

Michael
I have a suggestion for the next time something like this should happen. All the students should wear the yellow Jewish star and the pink triangle the Nazis made the respective groups wear, and just line up in silence facing the lunatics. It's the "I am Spartacus" ploy, and will eliminate any fear students might have, teach what it feels like to be despised, and confound people whose lives are so empty they have to hate in order to feel somewhat alive.

tesshark
I'm proud

Anonymous
you go wilson high!

Kevin
I thought kids didn't care anymore, you renewed my faith in humanity! Thank you, thank you, thank you, I am so very proud to live in Long Beach today.

Paul Leary
Equality TODAY! Good for you guys!

Robert in OH
Beautful!

Bob From Ohio
Great job Wilson High School! Proud of you all from Springfield,Ohio

Lori in KS
Wilson High students and their parents should be VERY PROUD of themselves!!! They handled things with dignity and grace. Please trust me when I say; the Phelps DO NOT represent Kansas!!!!! They are from another planet, they just call Kansas home and the rest of KS mourns.

Tiffany from CA
My heart breaks to see that Westboro Baptist Church in Kansas has so much HATE in their hearts. Their signs are ABSOLUTELY WRONG. I’m a Christian and I have a very intimate relationship with my Lord Jesus and I can tell you for a FACT the HE love’s EVERY ONE!! The Jews are Gods chosen people, God does NOT hate Israel, and God loves you and made you. Now that doesn’t mean that He approves of a sinful sexual orientation such as being gay BUT HE LOVES THAT PERSON REGARDLESS. GOD IS LOVE!!!

John
You guys are amazing! You're proof that there is hope for the future of this country and for humanity. My thanks. --John Minneapolis, MN

Sister Evelyn Carnate
I've seen and lived Queer history for 35 years plus-made a little myself-but to see these kids taken to the streets to protest hate in our communities ices the cake for all of us-everyone! We really do have a chance to live in peace now-Thank You...Thank You ..Thank You. Continue spreading the LOVE!

Wilson Teacher
I am so PROUD! My student spoke from the heart while at the same time being peaceful. I am proud to say that these are my students and this is what we teach.

Raul in SA
to the person that asked why the kids aren't in the classroom.....HELLO!!??? This is learning at its best...experiencing live demonstration and learning about it as it happens and not from a book...it can't get any better than this, the students are definitely engaged.

Nicole
Santa Cruz is so proud!!!! Thank you!!!

Wilson Teacher
To ??? Kids were not in school because it was the end of the school day. Wilson students: I've never been prouder of you than I was standing side by side with you to peacefully march against hate. Wilson students rule!

Adriana WHS
As a Wilson student who was at the protest i want to thank everyone for their support! I am in the Gay Straight Alliance at wilson and i was blown away with how many students and citizens of our community came together to support our city and those in it. I was so afraid that there might be violence but everyone showed how classy wilson really is and i am so proud of you for it! This truly shows how amazing our city is and that we dont tolerate hate! I honestly feel bad for the westboro members because they are wasting their lived hating others instead of spending time with their loved ones. we showed them that they could not get to us and for that i thank all of Long Beach especially my fellow Bruins! Possibly the best day of my life and i am truly proud to be a Bruin!

Lo
This is amazing. :) I find it sad that children can act a lot better than some adults. Hatred is never good, and I do think that those people from Kassas did bring out the best in the community. I love it even more that it was a peaceful rally. :) Thanks LB

Rick
We were there...the students were awesome! We really feel for the 7 year old who was with this cult. Where is child protective services?

In Response to Lisa
I did read Romans 1:26-32. It is talking about those who have pagan gods, and do not worship the one true God. Matthew 7:1: "Do not judge others, or God will judge you." (It sounds to me like the WBC hasn't been following the Word of God...) Corinthians 6:9-10: Its talking about even though man sins, God will forgive and save us from hell, so we can ALL share eternal life in His kingdom. I agree with the sign that says "A religion based on hate is a cult." Jews, LGBT communities, Long Beach loves you, and you have our support.

Student
To ???, it was after school

PretzelBabe
That is so cute! Seeing people get together for something like this makes me all giddy inside! :]

Cjones
Anyone else notice the bunny suit protester with the sign "LOL WTF OMG LMFAO?" Too funny!

Ann
This story made me swell up in tears. What a beautiful response to such hateful situation. When all we hear in the news are negative stories and situations, it is a breath of fresh air to be reminded that people ARE good, and that we DO do the right thing. This has made me so proud to be a Long Beach local, and I am so proud of the Wilson High kids.

Eric
What an amazing feat of courage and strength for the city of Long Beach. I am proud to live here and be a part of it.

Frankyboy
haha, I find that "Chuck Norris _can_ touch MC Hammer" sign friggin hilarious :) go kids go!!!

Just sayin'
To the WBC - when your houses are in a pile of rubble from the tornadoes that God sent to you as a message for your hate, the people of California and especially Long Beach will be sending blankets and clothing and food to help you get back on your feet. The food you or your friends are eating may even have been sent by a "fag". I don't expect you to learn anything from this because you think you already have all the answers, but the people of Long Beach know just how great of a city this is and we plan on keeping it great whether or not you like it.

dear dana
This protest wasn't about gay marriage it was about them bashing others. And wilson came with the couter attack kansas people never saw coming. Congrats to us proud to be a wilson student. Were acceptance is everywhere

Chuck in LB
It makes me proud to be a Wilson graduate, seeing how big of a response my alma mater gave to the hate group. WWJD? I know what He did, He was standing in the crowd along side the Wilson students protesting the protestors. They know NOTHING about God if they thing He hates anyone!!!

James
Man those church folk need a lot of prayers said for them!

???
I love that Wilson kids are displaying what it is like to be a real person who stands up for what they beleive in. No hate should be allowed in a free nation where it will and always be a culturally diverse nation. People have a right to express their selves no matter what religion they come from or who there sexually prefernec is . People have to know that they are human beings just like us and should be given the same respect.

Heyy
Hahaha it was either they protest at Wilson or poly. They wouldn't have made it out if they went to poly. Way to show them up LB!

Kate
Long Beach does us all proud! Love conquers hate. Keep up the good work, kids!!

antiprotester
It was after school smarty pants. we get out of school at 2:50 fyi.

Justin Swall
You know, I drive by Wilson almost every day - except yesterday. I missed out on the best protest ever! I'm glad to know now for sure that when I drive past the campus I'm definitely in "friendly" territory.

Samantha McCarthy
I am very proud of the students of Long Beach for their actions today. It is great to see former students in pictures acting against hate in a powerful way.

Jordan
Very smart slogans, I'm proud of our future: "Hi mom" "LOL WTF OMG LFMAO" Students should also be able to write a word like "diss": "Don't dis the rainbow" Or did he mean "this"?

Patrick in LA
This kids are AWESOME!! I absolutely <3 Long Beach Wilson High. All these kids are ROCK STARS! And to answer your question @??? Those kids were in a classroom in the school of REAL life...come join us there.

Juan
Nothing is more beautiful than the power of God, Jesus, and the Universe is being witnessed and testified with love, compassion, forgiveness, and understanding!!! So very HONORED to be here with our Beautiful STUDENTS OF WILSON HIGH!!!

PeteWA
Wilson School Students are the best students! You guys rock! "Jesus has 2 Daddies" sign is pure win.

JustLove
I feel LUVVV. Thanks, Wilson High.

Keith
Awesome!!! I'm really proud of the students at Wilson High. They make me not so pessimistic about our future. The kids stood up for the right cause and I know millions of gays and straight people couldn't be prouder for what they did. Job Well Done Thank You

JP
Way to go Bruins , Kerns your the man,Diane would be proud of all of you. Can we bill WBC for our security cost?

Craig (and Egan the gay W
@Tiffany from CA said:Now that doesn't mean that He approves of a sinful sexual orientation such as being gay... Tiffany, I'm not sure who your god is, but being gay isn't a choice, its genetic. And God made us that way.

Shark
This is absolutely wonderful to see. I just teared up a little seeing those photos. Let's hope the students' mentality can spread <3

Craig (and Egan the gay W
I'm proud of Wilson and all of LB for standing in solidarity. I'm reminded of a quote I saw at the DC Holocaust Museum: "There is a special place in hell reserved for those who knew what was going on, and still did nothing". I felt I HAD to come out and show WBC that we won't watch idly while they spew hate toward our diverse community.

Craig (and Egan)
didn't realize that Egan's full name would be clipped. It should have read Craig (and Egan the gay Wolfhound) :)

Becky
I was driving home on Willow and saw the "God Hates Fags" posters and thought it was a joke or a movie shoot or something. It's shocking how still today some people are so misguided and gullible to misinformation. Thanks Long Beach and Wilson students for letting these "lost" people know that Long beach is about LOVE. Their demonstration here is futile.

parent of a Wilson '01 g
As the proud parent of a 2001 Wilson graduate, I am inspired by my daughter who went to the site yesterday to support the school's message that "Hate is not welcome in our school" as well as every single student, teacher and faculty member who quietly proved to the WBC that we, as a community, stand for love, not hate, for all people no matter what race, religion or sexual orientation they choose. We have been given these rights as individuals in this country over 200 years ago and because of our forefather's wisdom, they still prevail today. This morning, she and I also participated at the Temple Israel's interfaith service (where the WBC were again demonstrating) with hundreds of others to acknowledge that we are all ONE, no matter what religion we choose as ours, because all paths lead to GOD! I am proud of our city and this community who can say we came together as a quiet force practicing the same principles as Martin Luther King and Mahatma Gandhi to show that LOVE, not hate, prevails.

Straight but not narrow
This is gorgeous to see. Many people worry that young people are apathetic or don't participate. It's wonderful to see them out in numbers to make a peaceful stand for love, to see that they're supporting loving relationships in all their forms. I always wonder why people who oppose gay marriage think that it in anyway threatens their own relationships or the sancitity of marriage. If someone else's loving relationship has anything to do with you, YOU have the problem, not them. Let them love in peace.

Capster
Absolutely stunning and a step forward for humanity. "School" isn't a brick and mortar building with fluorescent lights and formica topped desks - school is wherever the kids are (including us adult kids - I'm 56) and learning occurs. I've sailed as a volunteer with L.A. Maritime Institute's Topsail Youth Program in San Pedro for 17 years, and seen more real learning happen on our ships than in many of the classrooms I had to sit in with teachers who didn't get it, and didn't care! Lastly, if Jesus had been there in a physical body (I have not a moment's doubt that Jesus was present by the way) he would have been hanging out with the Kansas WBC folks just he did with the lepers and prostitutes, sharing God's love and turning up the light. I hope all of us might choose the same path, cuz it's the only way we will ever see an end to all the pain and violence we live with today. Thank you to all of Long Beach - it was a truly amazing example of our potential! Be well.....be peace! Cappy Cross

Rissa
I cannot believe those idiots went all the way out to Longbeach Ca to spread their hate! I really wish they would just give it up!! Nobody cares what that "church" says about anything!!

Pete
I'd hate myself too if I lived in Kansas. Way to go Wilson Students and everybody involved. You all made the city proud.

tfunk
we followed these guys to miami to counter-protest. it was almost pathetic. i was ready to let some rage out but it was only it was a mom, 2 teens and a little boy. THATS IT. thank jah there wasn't more of them. - i don't tolerate intolerance -

CSULB grad in Philippines
As a current Peace Corps Volunteer in the Philippines, a graduate from CSULB, a teacher, and a person who loves God: We are put on this Earth to love. What right do we have to condemn each other? Instead of being unabashedly hateful, why don't we try being unabashedly loving? You don't have to adhere to people's beliefs if you don't want to, but God commanded us to love thy neighbor. "Thy neighbor" may be gay, Jewish, Muslim, transgender, atheist, Christian, Republican, Democrat, or even WBC members.... you love them anyway because they are human and they deserve to be loved. To Wilson students: Peace and love in the face of hate has obviously won. Continue to speak in love, especially about WBC. If you trash-talk them, then how are we better. They need love and compassion, because obviously they have a LOT of hate in their hearts. All the way from the Philippines, I give you one BIG shout-out across the Pacific! God is Love.

Natasha
Dear ???, They are being Americans and standing up for what they believe in. They are exercising their right to protest. They are being taught something on those streets that the classroom will never teach them. Congrats Wilson High!

Wilson alum
So proud of my high school. My favorite sign was "Jesus had two daddies."

Loretta
Wow, I'm so poud of all of you!

Marisa
Go Wilson students! You guys rock!

Lol
Why does everyone feel the need to tell ??? that it is after school. I think I saw over 20 comments about it just in case ??? forgot lol. Good job Wilson.

arioa
I'm proud, extremely proud of the school i graduated from last year. This was a lesson to be learned. This day should be traced onto the pages of our minds, so that we can abolish every heart beat that hate has. People need to accept change, cuz ffs, its the freaking 21st century! change will occur regardless of what these abomination of nothings from kansas thinks! Long live the gays! This city is for love, peave, and life! your hate can never top what we stand for!

L...
I don't believe the Jesus people's message was to promote Hate, but they sure made it seem like it...like I wanna go to that Church

Preacher's Daughter
I was an observer yesterday, not by choice but because I work in the area. Wilson High School students, teachers, principals and the parents of the students should be extremely proud of the peaceful way the students demonstrated their non-tolerance for hate in Long Beach. How sad that a few religious groups feel they are to "save the world" when all they are doing is spreading hate. God truly loves everyone! My dad is a pastor in the Mid West and I am proud to say my dad taught me the TRUTH... and that God doesn't hate anyone... no matter what their nationality is, sexual preference or religious beliefs. God even loves those people from Kansas who go around preaching hatred.

Angel
When properly informed, our young people can understand and behave in a highly responsible manner to protest unacceptable prejudice and hatred in their community. Bravo to the Teachers and Students for their leadership conduct to stand up for respect, diversity as well as human rights and equality!

Carlos
If I was there my poster would say - "God Hates Stupid Signs"

Nic in Europe
Dana - Sorry, you're out of touch with the changing times. Marriage used to be between a man and a woman. Before that, marriage was where a man purchased a woman from her father, and owned her. Society is improving and progressing! BTW - I am legally married to a man, just like thousands of others in various nations across the world.

pantherq
Thank you students. I'm glad there are those that are standing up to those that are destroying our country with hate and dissension.

John of LB
You know... when everything is said and done the future does look brighter. The world will be in good hands when our kids step up to take responsibility for it. Us old folks just have to kindly step aside.

Glenn Matsuki
I am very proud of the students at Wilson High for standing up to hate. Shame on those from Kansas for using religion to spread hatred and bigotry. Next time stay in Kansas and wallow in your own filth, hatred and shallow existence.

Max
I think what the students at Long Beach did was fantastic! We cannot continue with the type of hatred being spewed by the WBC. Watching the video posted above, the comment being made by the WBC member says "raise your kids to be God hating brutes..." I saw no violence, and read of no violence. What brutish things did they do? The WBC is lucky that the Long Beach students were so nice. I commend those Long Beach students for standing up for what's right! God does not hate, God loves unconditionally!

Ms.Melis
Those kids were exactly where they needed to be- standing up for what's right. They gave all of us hope that their generation will bring equality to America.

manny aka snapshot05
Great work by the city police maintaining calm and not over reacting. Awesome to see the students, our future, so open minded and ready to repeal hate with peace.

EC
With a world so full of hate and destruction, seeing a demonstration like this keeps hope alive.

Erica
Long Beach makes me so proud! I am sitting here in tears right now because I am so moved by the awesome display of unity from Wilson High School. I wish I could have been there.

Leah
Kids of Long Beach, YOU RULE. Thanks for setting an example for the rest of the country to follow. And your signs are hilarious--I tried to read every one of them. STOP PLATE TECTONICS!

Mofreezeup
Amazing maturity shown by these high school students. Bravo!

JR Salazar
The next time those rednecks come down here, get a rope, some pipes and chains and swinging hands, and a whole lotta hell to raise. Please advise. Thank you.

Nancy
These pictures brought tears to my eyes. I'm so proud of you students! Love is all there is, let's not judge others! --Wilson '77 grad and mother of Wilson grads

Steve
Hahaha to people saying there shouldnt be hate anywhere. So you dont hate the terrorists who took down the world trade center? Or the countless terrorists causing harm in the world? Come on people. Wake up. Yeah it was a great act of companionship against like what 10 hard core right wingers in CA. Obviously the locals will win haha. But just remember peaceful protests don't solve everything and life ain't fair.

JRH in LKWD
Wilson High students make me proud to be part of the greater LBC community. hate deserves no quarter in a civilized society.

belias2
Not so sure of some of the posts coverage, it seems anti-gay frankly and pro-Phelps. If I could just say when the civil rights struggles went on for black equal rights segregation vs. integration white people pitted Malcolm X against Martin Luther King Jr. over their approach when in truth they stood on the same side of civil rights. Hate deserves no acceptance no mater how non violent they appear preachers of hate are divisive want nothing more than to justify their hate.

Anonymous
Much love and support from London for Wilson!! Keep spreading love and acceptance

Stacy
Just to address the concern of ???, the protest began at 2:45pm, and the students are released at 2:50pm, so they were not supposed to be in class at the time of the protest.

Kate K
I was away when the counterprotests occurred and still have to check up on the synagogues and the Ragga Muffins, but of course I went here first and couldn't believe the length of the comments page! I wish that I'd been there and was thinking about this the entire time. There was considerable discussion about whether to ignore this or have a peaceful protest, but the proof is in the photos--and comments. I am so proud to live here--we had the "church" members saying, "Fred, we're not in Kansas anymore." This is a heads-up to the rest of the country about who we are.

Jon Gotz
As a lifelong resident of Long Beach and a father of 2 Wilson High graduates, I could not be more proud of what the students did last week. Goes to show that most students know how to determine right from wrong and they sure had it figured out last week.

Fo-sheezyyy
I love how they got motorcaded out of the riot. Funny, funnyyyy

JaneG
Wow!!! This gives me so much faith in our next generation!!! Wilson students...you rock.

britney
do not hate our school be free

Wilson Teacher
While I abhor the hate filled protest of the out-of-staters, I am equally apalled by some of the falsehoods and blasphemes on the signs of some Wilson teenagers. It's historically inaccurate to hold a sign saying that Jesus had 2 fathers or that Jesus would have voted No on Prop 8. I'm very sorry if this is not what you want to hear, but we can not make up history or make God conform to the limits of our humanity. Jesus is grieved by gay relationships, but He loved EVERYONE so much that He was willing to die on a cross to bring everyone to Him. THAT is true love.

Wilsonite
WOW!

JR Salazar
We need more of this. I kid you not.

Bax
I'm writing from Portland OR to say I've never been so proud of high school kids ever ! Great kids, great school...

Cam
You're amazing, Bruins. Wilson Teacher, God + Joseph = 2 dads...or maybe God + Mary = 2 moms. Same difference. I hope you're not in the math department...

Pam from MI
What wonderful high school students! The future is in good hands.

Rickg
How refreshing to see something positive. A super incentive to pull us all together: gay and straight/all ethnic and religious students. NOW this is the true Rainbow GOD intended for planet earth. Not divided with fanatics and hatred. This is world of Buddha, Jeshua, Ghandi, Martin Luther King, and all our forefathers who advocated the Peace of GOD and not human hatred. I am very very touched and proud of my brothers and sisters of Wilson School. Thank you soooo much for letting your heart be seen in action. GOD will bless those who speak for peace.

tara
school was over so i luv wilson i was there u guys suck

Mz. Danger
I wish I would of been there but I was working. Wilson students rock all the time. c/o 97. Go Bruins. You did us proud here in Long Beach

jim
wow...I'm so proud of my alma mater...I graduated in '77 and have so much respect for that campus now! Go Bruins

Uspa Triot
Muito Muito Bom! (very fine) Renews my faith in Humanity !!

Ahu Man
Bahut Bahut Achha ! You people are enlightened human beings...

LB Vet
Wow, this is sooooo sad. Anybody who wonders why people are anti-gay, well here you go. The fact that these children have become so disillusioned by the gay agenda, it is clearly evident how it affects society. Most, I'm sure, were just going with the crowd mentality, but why did it have to be over gays? Can't we start putting effort into things that matter rather than the disgusting lifestyle of confused individuals. Did anybody see the picture with the American flag being desecrated with rainbow markings. Isn't that illegal?!?! Enough! Keep your agenda to yourselves and keep your lifestyle behind closed doors like the rest of us. Oh, and Craig (and Egan the gay W - being gay is not genetic, get over it. Homosexuality cannot be hereditary. That's a contradiction in itself!

Delicious D
Gay isnt a crime these students are strong for getting out of class and standing out there to do what is right we are all the same

10th st local
i have nothing against gays and i am glad these kids can stand up for something, but it isnt true they used class... i agree with LB VET, they desecrated the American flag, many people have died protecting that... its a shame to have it ruined like that. also to have signs saying "jesus had two dads" is just plain vulgar!

TWK
This brightened my day :) Beautiful. <3

A Christian
This was so beautiful it made me tear up. Jesus told us to love one another. These kids did some real evangelization today! Go Long Beach!

ByTheSea
Incredible!!! By far the best thing I've seen happen in LA in quite sometime. Keep the message out there. No pun intended... Awesome.

Rick in LB
You guys are GREAT!

little minnesota lesbo.
I heard about this AMAZING story about these courageous, smart, and creative kids all the way up here in the cold land. So I had to check it out, and i must say I am SO impressed. Its nice to know that there is support out there. And to the crazy kansas bible thumpers.... well. God created the heavens and the earth and all the creatures that inhabit it (even the gays) And god makes no mistakes.. right. So we cant be all bad right?!

Long Beach News

LBPOST.com Managing Editor Ryan ZumMallen keeps up on all the current and breaking Long Beach news.

Ryan ZumMallen has served as the managing editor of the LBPOST.com since 2007. He graduated from CSULB with a degree in Print Journalism in 2008 and is a member of the 2009 class of Leadership Long Beach. You can find him on various basketball courts around the city.

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