The snyder v Phelps case involved a the Snyder family who had lost their son Matthew Snyder in the line of duty. Along with the Westboro Baptist Church who believed God hates and punishes the United States for its tolerance of homosexuality, especially in the military. The owner of the Church Fred W. Phelps and other members protested near the funeral with disrespectful signs that offended Albert Snyder the father. Which caused him to file a lawsuit against the Westboro Baptist church.
This case brought a lot of attention from society because there are tons of people who has their opinion on homosexuality. Rather its for or against, this case could affect how other people will express their thoughts. Which is important because it brings up the public matter regarding the concerns on a public street. That it isn’t effective towards the tort of emotional distress. Not the mention the questionable doubt of the First amendment to protect the protesters Freedom of Speech.
Given the fact that Phelps rule 8-1 decision expressing that his actions was protected by the first amendment. To me shows unfairness, because it just shows that it okay to express your personal opinion. Regardless of how it affect others, the emotional damage your causing, yet since it isn’t physical harm then its protected. After the case there hasn’t been any positive changes, because people are still spreading negative comments towards politics, societies, and people’s religion. Because they follow the understanding our right to freedom of speech. I believe that everyone is entitled to their own opinion and should be expressed. Although, there are positive ways to bring out those opinions without protesting and emotionally hurting individuals.
I couldn’t find any other cases that have cited the Snyder v. Phelps case, but there are cases that resembles the issue of homosexuality other than in the military. For example, the Boy Scout of America v. Dale; the boy scout had a rule that there can’t be a gay leader. Dale was discovered to be a homosexual and gay right activist, which caused him to be denied. Dale sued for the violation of New Jersey law of prohibiting discrimination of the basis of sexual orientation. The Supreme court has rule the Boy Scout protected behind the First Amendment of Freedom of Speech. Every case has there own unique issues however, have one thing in common that till this day is still constantly happening.
