Into the West

Some of you have probably heard about the high school in Orange county that wanted to put on a toned down version of Rent this year. Their production was canceled, controversy ensued, and eventually they were given the green light to go ahead. (The ACLU has filed a lawsuit against the school for this and other acts of discrimination). Last night was opening night and not only did they open to a sold out crowd, they also managed to attract the likes of the WBC. Initially I was worried about what this would mean for the students, but when I read today's Los Angeles Times article, I was stunned. While there were three individuals from the church protesting, over 200 students showed up in support of LGBT individuals.

As they [the WBC protesters] gathered on the sidewalk, several students came together in counter-protest on the other side of the street. Within minutes, more than 200 -- some wearing rainbow tie-dye shirts and holding peace signs -- stood sentry in front of the campus, clutching signs that said, "Support Love," "God Hates No One" and "Love Is Not a Sin."

The students turned the protest into a mini-celebration, singing songs from the musical and breaking into the school's own fight song. A couple ran through the crowd in swim trunks, with the words "God Loves Gays" written across their chests. One was wrapped in a rainbow-colored cloth. Another wore a handmade shirt that read, "Love Is Equal."

Martin, the theater teacher who had hoped his choice in musicals might touch some students, came by for a few minutes. But he walked away quickly, fighting tears. "I'm proud of them," he said.

This is what the future holds for us!! More and more people will understand the need for love to win, and in just a few years any protesters left will be like these three individuals: small, insignificant, and largely ignored.