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A small group of people started gathering in front of McClatchy High School today, at 3 o’clock, to show their support for gay rights. Among the group, were protesters who had gathered earlier at the capitol, students from neighboring schools, and the press. It was nearing the scheduled time for the arrival of the notorious anti-gay protester, Fred Phelps and his clan, from the Westboro Baptist Church. They were scheduled to arrive at 3;15pm, according to their website godhatesfags.com.
The high school was ready with a dozen staff members standing guard in the front drive way. A number of students chose to dine in restaurants across the street, having a nice vantage point to enthusiastically view the scene.
At 3:20, the school bell rang and students began to flood through the front doors. As the front of the school filled with students, more supporters joined the group. Some were wearing pro-gay t-shirts and others were wearing rainbow colored ribbons. Several students identified themselves as members of the gay-straight student alliance at high school. Other students made the point that they were straight, but believe in mutual respect for all people.
The mass of demonstrators became larger. As cars drove by, honking their horns, the crowd would roar with delight. What was planned as a counter-protest became a gathering of people with a love for freedom and equality. The diversity of the crowd was greeted with the smiles on people’s faces.