I got this in a e-mail from the PSU WRC
at SW 13th & Market from 7:30-8:30am to protest the PSU Queer Resource Center, the inclusion of sexual orientation and gender identity in PSU?s Equal Opportunity and Nondiscrimination Policy, and PSU?s gender-neutral bathrooms.
The PSU Queer Resource Center honors Freedom of Speech ? the concept of being able to speak freely without censorship. We also recognize that the Westboro Baptist Church and their message of ?God Hates Fags? may be disturbing and evoke an emotional response. Freedom of speech allows us to engage in a dialogue about sexual and gender identity, and the QRC strongly encourages PSU students to do so.
In response to Westboro Baptist Church?s protest, the Queer Resource Center will be hosting a counter demonstration at SW 12th & Market to showcase the PSU and Portland community?s support of GLBTQ individuals. People are invited to congregate at the PSU Queer Resource Center (in room 401 of the Smith Building at 1825 SW Broadway) starting at 7am on Monday, and at 7:15 we will walk down to the site together. At the counter demonstration, there will be resources about how to advocate for the rights of sexual and gender minorities, listening tables for people who need to talk about their reaction to the protest, and opportunities to connect with other individuals who are saddened by the mission and values of the Westboro Baptist Church. We will also be accepting donations on behalf of SMYRC, Portland?s Sexual Minority Youth Resource Center.
We highly encourage students to not fuel the negativity of the Westboro Baptist Church by engaging in their protest. There are more constructive ways to combat homophobia in our society. If you have more questions about how to get involved, please contact the PSU Queer Resource Center at 503-725-9742 or qrc@pdx.edu. For more information about making a donation to SMYRC, email favor.ellis@cascadiabhc.org or visit
http://www.smyrc.org/give.html