SPOKANE, Wash. – Messages of encouragement and support greeted middle and high school students in the East Valley School District in Spokane. The show of solidarity came just hours before a planned protest by Westboro Baptist Church members Friday.
Messages appeared on the sidewalk near East Valley Middle and High School. Brian Talbott, superintendent of the East Valley School District, highlighted the community’s reaction to this protest.
“We come together when our kids are at the focal point of negativity,” said Talbott.
The protest prompted the school district to dismiss its students early. Talbott emphasized the importance of focusing on education without external distractions.
“It’s hateful – and we have enough issues within the K-12 system that we don’t need this outside noise,” he stated.
The Southern Poverty Law Center and the Anti-Defamation League recognize Westboro Baptist Church as a hate group, contributing to both community concern and enhanced vigilance for students’ safety.
Superintendent Talbott mentioned that the district was informed weeks ago by local law enforcement about the protest. He appreciated the support shown by the community, which was evident in the chalk messages left on the school’s sidewalks.
“I’m not surprised by the responses. Nobody believes this should be occurring in a K-12 system. Really anywhere frankly. Their message is devious,” Talbott added.
In addition to East Valley, Westboro Baptist Church also held a demonstration at Gonzaga University.
