Free Speech Advocate Dies

Free speech advocate Fred Phelps, the once leader and founder of the infamous Westboro Baptist Church has died at the age of 84. Phelps, whom the Church allegedly excommunicated last summer, is best remembered for his efforts in spreading his Church’s message that blames homosexuality for the ills of the nation. Notably, his Church is known to picket the funerals of U.S. soldiers killed in action, with signs reading “God Hates Fags” and “Thank God for Dead Soldiers.” Though his activities have been universally condemned,  Phelps pushed the limits of free speech to express himself, revealing disdain many Americans share for certain speech activity.