Letters from 2000 to 2004

DIRECTORY:
Letters from/Encounters with the Phelps Clan
Not everyone hates Homosexuals
If you're gay, say hey
Letters from those who do not know the definition of "Homophobe"
Oddball Letters
Religious Reactions

I kept everyone's e-mails as is, bad punctuation and spelling errors left intact. I figure it's the content that matters and frankly we all are very abusive to the English language when it comes to e-mailing our thoughts.

SEND E-MAILS TO Jeff Swenson, webmaster

Not Everyone Hates Homosexuals

I remember you...you made some damn fine flash on Newgrounds.com a long time ago. Good to see you fighting the good fight. Any enemy of Phelps is a friend of mine. But now to get to the heart of the matter.
When I see homophobes, I see people so insecure in their man (or woman)hood, that they view gays as a threat. Are they that insecure? Are homophobes so scared for their heterosexuality that they lash out at any gay, and look for any excuse to do so. Men andwomen like this should be locked up for
paranoia.
Pathetic, man. Your site is the best. Gave me a great laugh.
R. Dean

Yes, Mr. Dean is right. I am guilty of submitting some flash toons to Newgrounds.com that are seriously in poor taste. Glad to see someone remembers them--or maybe that's not a good thing.

man your site is awesome its cool and funny and i just want to say that all you fascist rascist nazi fucks can die and rot in some firey hell because i dont believe in heaven or hell even though i come a religious town called st. george fuckin utah i hat eit here everyone is really closed minded and conservative and consieded all they say is "dude that was gay" and a bunch of bullshit like that and everyone hates gay people for some fucked up reason and they all hate canadians and jews because of south park and i find it a bunch of bullshit but yeah i just wanted to say your sites awesome(sorry for the spelling i dont know how to spell certain words)
signed
steffan

Thanks Steffan, though you could use the spellcheck function of your e-mail program if you don't know how to spell certain words. Not judging, just suggesting.
I've noticed that alot of people don't understand the humor of Southpark very well. The creators are equal opportunity offenders and if anyone thinks they are suggesting that you hate gays, Canadians and Jews than you just don't get their satire.

Hi Jeff.
I'm Laura.
I don't really know how I ended up on your site, and I'm not really glad now I did, either. It's not... well, it's not directly because of your site that I'm a bit unhappy. The fact that people are idiots and I can't understand them makes me a bit unhappy. . Actually your site was very entertaining, I just have a bit of a disliking towards sarcasm in large amounts (and still I'm being sarcastic all the time I know, but hey, I guess if somebody's allowed to be inconsistent, it's us teenaged
girls^^)
The cartoons were fun though.Through your site I went to the site called www.godhatesfags.com. I couldn't help thinking it was some sort of a sick joke - I mean, come on; "...Bible words and sentiments, including: GOD HATES FAGS, FAGS HATE GOD, THANK GOD FOR AIDS, FAGS ARE NATURE FREAKS, etc..." - but apparently it isn't a joke. Sites like that and people like the Phelps (not all of them, though) make me sad and angry. Make me a bit unproud to be human - why can't we just get along? I don't know about God and who he hates or doesn't hate, and I don't actually want to get involved with any of that. There are already enough of those who belive there is and those who belive there isn't a God, and I don't really have any reason to... er, choose I side, whatever. Okay, I'd belive in God if I'd see one, end of story.
Yeah, I lost my point here somewhere, if I had one. English is my second language, so I've probably written some things rather awkwardly. Sorry.
The main point I guess... I think it's just stupid to judge people by witch sex they prefer. People should be judged by their personalities and actions and that sort of things.I don't know any gay people, I think. (Or actually I don't know, yet. I don't think many people even know are they gay or not at the age of 14. I don't.) But I do know a lot of girls who say gay guys are really sweet and nice people - even though the girls don't even know anyone gay. For some reason, I don't like that, either (but it IS way better than being homophobic, I guess:P). It's a trend to support gays now, I think... well okay, I don't know that many boys who think like that, but still. Hm, right. I'll stop now before this message goes any stupider than it already is. I guess what I should say... what I meant to say, was, I like your site, and it makes a very very good point.
You rule. ^^;

I get the feeling Laura likes to talk a lot (okay, I ramble on sometimes too). Yeah it's a trend amongst girls to have gay guy friends. Doesn't really indicate anything about the nature of gay men though. Some probably are sweet, and some are probably stuck up a-holes, just like the rest of us.

Dear Jeff,
My name is Matthew. I'm a freshman (15 yrs. old) in high school. I want to thank you for being a decent human being. This world needs to take a good look around and realize that all of this fighting, and hatred, is just resulting in the same thing. Its people killing people no matter how you look at it and it's wrong. I dont consider myself to have a religion but I do believe in a higher being. I also believe that if they were so advanced as to create a civilzation such as this, than they wouldn't judge based on sexual orientation, race, religion ( which are
human traits are they not?). I've been called a "Fag" or a "Homo" billions of times in my life already,I simply don't care, I have many homosexual friends, and thats what matters.
I dont see people based on where they come from or what they believe, I see them based on what kind of people they are. Color, nationality, etc. means absolutely nothing to me, they're just words to classify people. I truly wish that mankind would realize the damage that has already been done. People are arrogant, and thats what will destroy us, not being gay.I'm not gay by the way , but I do take this personally because its human rights, and everyone NEEDS to be treated equally.
And with George W. Bush being the homophobic leader he is, and his proposed amendment I sometimes wonder what is so good about people? If we're such superior beings, than why can't we get along with people who are in love and just so happen to be of the same gender?
Fred Phelps is a confused man, I do not hate him for his beliefs though. Hatred is wrong and is what is killing humanity. I just hope Fred will someday realize he is spreading the doom of humanity through his teachings. Many people ask me "Why don't you hate Fred Phelps, he's such an asshole, I mean come on he hates gays". If i was to say I hated Fred Phelps I would be giving in, contributing to the already abundant source of hatred in this world. Anyway, once again, I just hope people realize their ignorance and arrogance, and someday can accept, and forget the petty differences.
Sincerley,
Matthew Myers

Thankfully Matthew, at least in the US there is an open debate about this issue and homosexuality in general. The US does have a history of bigotry but it also has a history of overcoming bigotry through protest and speech. Hopefully neither side will result to violence in the near future.

I was appaled when I first saw godhatesfags.com . I have several friends who are gay and not only that, I have been with several girls myself. (I'm female) But the thing is, I don't base whom I date on if they have a penis or a vagina, I base it on who they are as a person. I think everyone should think that way but I know it will never happen. I think your site is wonderful and youu should keep it up. Because the one thing that totally ripped my heart out on godhatesfags.com was the Matthew Sheppard 'memorial'. That memorial is basically saying that his own mother shouldn't care that he died according to them. I'm happy I came across your site, it gave me a good laugh when I read when men and women do to each other and that sex is only for making babies....ah to not be religious.
Sara Claussen, Portland, Oregon - The NEW San Francisco! Yay!

I guess I still base my sexual habits on whether a vagina is involved or not since I'm hetero. It's hard for me to conceive of another male as sexually desirable, though as an artist I don't have an aversion to the male form (muscles have always fascinated me and the penis can be representative of so many things). As far as Portland, OR and other areas of the US, I think the floodgates have been opened concerning gay marriage. Not saying it will be easy, but there's no going back now.

Dear Jeff,
My name is Derrick Krase, I am 14 years old and currently live in Arlington Heights, Illinois. I think that this website is the best, not because of the fact that you make fun of homophobes, but the fact that now I know that there are other sane people in the United States. I would just like to say some things about the current Gay Marriage laws in our country stating that it is illegal.
This country was founded by the rules that a person can have the freedom of speech, the freedom of thought, and the freedom of action. And by saying that Gay marriages are illegal is basically taking those rules and forgetting about them. The Government tries so hard to convince other countries that our country is all about freedom yet what the Government is doing is slowly taking away each freedom, one at a time. Right now its the freedom of choosing the sex of your partner, pretty soon it might be back to the old ways which if you speak against the president or any other Government official, you get your tongue cut out. I think that it is very bold for the governor in California (I do not remember his name) to allow Gay marriages even though it is considered "illegal". Again, I just thought I would give out my opinion to be heard and that any one who wishes to argue this or just wants to contact me on this can reach me at my email which is [e-mail removed. Thank you for taking the time to read this and possibly posting this on your website.
Sincerely,
Derrick Krase

I removed Derrick's e-mail address because I cannot control who may contact him and quite frankly while most visitors to this site are nice folks, there are some nuts.
But in response, it looks like the gay marriage issue is coming to the forefront and is even discussed among young people quite often. I doubt very much that we will get to the point of having our freedom of expression revoked but it does make me nervous when someone else's rights are infringed upon.
Technically speaking, gays have never been given the right to marry legally in the US so no rights have been taken away. However, from a common sense perspective if we have accepted homosexuality in our society (which we have otherwise we would regularly use outdated sodomy laws to throw them in jail) then the right to marriage is the next step. To say that gays cannot marry is to essentially to say that homosexuality is a sin, it is not love but a sexual perversion, and homosexual partners cannot commit to one another. Society's hypocrisy will become more obvious as the debate grows.
Even mainstream Christians, while hating the sin, do not hate the sinner so if atheists (considerd to be blatant sinners) can marry why not gays? Well, we get into traditional marriage roles--but then why aren't women in the home and why do they use birth control? Well then, God didn't design sexual intercourse for man having sex with another man--first prove that God actually designed sexual intercourse and you might have a point. Second of all, you have to ask, if God designed sexual intercourse it must have an outcome--procreation. And then it's not just gay men who are in trouble with God, it's hetersexual couples who use sex for pleasure only and refuse to have children or limit the children they have. If part of the purpose of sex is a pleasure and bonding with your mate then gays are not in violation--they are only taking that part of sexual intercourse that heterosexuals are engaging in without the result of childbirth.

Hey,
so i was reading you're site after I came across the link on Anti-Flag's website. Unfortunatly it was AFTER i checked out Phelp's website. Thank God that there are some sane people (you not phelps to make myself clear) in the world. See this is why I think people should be told that freedom of speech is a privelege, not a right. If some people would think before they speak, the world would be much better off. We wonder why the world is so f-ed up, but then you read some ignorant crap like phelp's site, and the answer is right there. I hope to God, that people get some sense, and figure out that (to quote anti-flag) "We are all human, it's time to prove it"
from,
Mary

Hey,
My name is Tasha and I am only 13. I go to Junior High School still, in a place where it's difficult trying to find kids that have any inteligence at all on serious things. They will throw racist or prejudice comments around like it doesn't mean anything at all. I'm not a religious person, yet I don't think all religious people are "evil" but whenever I have tried to stop people from saying things that are disgusting (racist and homophobic things usually) I usually just get made fun of. I am determined to help make some kind of difference, since at my age I know that my friends who are slightly racist or homophobic probably don't even know why they are and instead are doing things only because that it what they were taught. I think this site is great. I wish all the ignorance in the world could just dissappear but I know that that is virtually impossible. But doing things like creating this site is amazing and I think it's just so totally awesome. Hah, good job! is what i'm basically trying to say.
Tasha

At 13, Tasha, you're ahead of some 40 year-olds.

How I found your site is an interesting little story in itself, but I must say I'm glad I did. It reassures me that there are sane people in the world still. I've been to such sites as 'godhatesfags.com' among several others and I wonder why people have to spread hate. Especially these 'so called' Christians. I live in bible belt with all of these religious people, and I wonder why I moved there sometimes. I thought that this so called 'God' wanted everyone to be nice to each other and Jesus taught kindness and 'do unto others as they would do to you' and being nice to your neighbor and such. Well, I certainly get the exact opposite reaction when I'm out with my girlfriend. It makes very little sense to me and sometimes I have to wonder if maybe I'm just out of my mind, seeing as only my girlfriend and one other friend agree with me. It starts to get scary when your gay friends become avid church goers. It's very comforting to know that there are other people out there who agree with my views, especially heterosexual ones. Thank you for taking the time to put up that site.
~~Izora Jade

GGH,
well, where i go to church there is a lot of negativity pointed towards gays. Where i go to school there is also negativity, heck wherever i go, and it's not just gays. This is the way i break it down. There are two types of people in this world. the haters and the non haters the way i see it is that once the haters get what they want they will always find something or someone else to hate. In spite of all the hate i choose to surround myself with the ones who are hated, because if i dont try and help out somehow these people are gonna end up blowing their heads off. thats where the problem lies. not just haters who hate. also non haters who are not willing to do anything to stop the hate. since hate is an unending cycle there is no way to rid the world of it but we can fight it. I will fight this cycle of hate till the day i die.
frome,
Drake Duncan a 15 year old high shcool student against hate.

Love to hear from 15 year-olds like this.

Dear Jeff,
1st i wana say..... WOOOOHOOOO YOU GO BOY!!!!!!! STICK UP FOR WHAT YOU BELIEVE!!!!! I LOVE YOU!!! WOOO HOOOOOO!!!!! YOU ROCK!!!!!... ok enough of that, i am really glad you have made your site. One of my friends told me about godhatesfags.com and i wanted to witness it for myself, so I checked it out and almost pucked. It was disgusting. You would think that a grown man would mature at his age. I guess some guys do take forever to mature. And what I found so sickening was the photos, with little kids holding up those ugly signs, Don't these people understand that they are just spreading hate and crime? GRRR!!! it gets me mad. But anyways just so you know a lil about who is sending this to you, my age is 16 and i live in Massachusetts.
Thx again
Tony-Lee

And 16 year-olds like this. I get the feeling we still may have some intelligent life amongst the youth in our public schools.

I stumbled upon you website by mistake, and was pleasantly suprised that I did. I was reading an article in the Denver Post on 9/23/2002. There was an article about Fred Phelps. I was looking for the phone number of the "church", and I use this term loosely, when I stumbled upon your sight. I wanted to call the church and relay my disgust at this man. He wants to protest at the CSU/Univ of Wyoming football game. The purpose of this protest is to "celebrate the fourth anniversary of Matthew Shepard's journey to hell" . I couldn't believe my eyes. The man can not be a minister, let alone a Christian. I will, after this email, call the church.
Thanks,
Judy Bilyeu

If hell exists Judy, it should definitely be reserved for those who interrupt football games. And Hitler, Stalin, Ted Bundy and the rest of the blotches on History.

Jeff,
Thank you so much for standing up for gays. I'm not gay but i think that everyone is equal and deserves love and respect. Thank you for your bravery and efforts.
Scott Maucione

Actually, there's not much bravery involved unless Pastor Phelps sues me (the Phelps are all lawyers). This was just another worthy target for satire.

hi..
i know i sound nervous even as i write this, but i just wanted to say thank you for running a site that's good..
i came across your site by accident and went straight to the feedback section.. and was very disturbed by the "phelps inquiries" section. i had always known that there are hate groups, and had always been aware of the fact that i'm ignorant.. but i never knew how wrong the haters can get. it really leaves me sad and hopeless and i couldn't even finish reading email exchange #3.
i'm not gay and so maybe that's why i've been so ignorant. and now i realize how unaware i have been. your site is really good -- it raises awareness about things that people take for granted sometimes.. it relieves me to know that there are kind and good souls like you around who put up a shield that in a way protects the rest of the world that doesn't take action against wrong things happening around us.
thank you very much for taking the time and putting energy into this site. it is really enlightening.
UNSIGNED

Thank you so much Jeff for this site, that people can see the truth and not the lies that come forth from Phelps' evil tongue, also i think you definitely have to see a clip called "the sodomoblie" in mihael moore's The awful truth series. In this "sodomobile" scene michael moore and a bunch of gay american men come to topeka and bug phelps. it's a must see, very funy. Keep up the good work!

Actually, the first time I got wind of Fred Phelps was through a videotape of one of Michael Moore's TV shows and I didn't really take Phelps seriously until I came across his site.

Dear Jeff,
I think it is a great thing that you are doing making your website, i myself am a heterosexual, but many of my friends are gay, and i am personally tired of the homophobia the general public is fed and subsequently spews out. I would be honored if i could do something to help further the mission you have set out to do. email me back with any suggesstions you might have.
thank you very much for your time.
Yours truly,
Jon Engling

Hey man,
I too am a heterosexual Cartoonist/Artist. I think your site is awsome. I think it's about time that someone stick it to these people. Especially these damn religious fanatics that spread more hate than unity. You rock! you really do!
btw, if you ever need a straight cartoonist, e-mail me.
---toma

Not sure what I would do with a heterosexual cartoonist, but good luck on your art. I think cartoonists, homosexaul, heterosexual or otherwise, are a maligned minority but we have yet to be recognized as such.

hey my name is drew and i'm a 15 yr. old heterosexual from missouri. i have a few homosexual friends and when i found "godhatesfags.com" i was completely appalled. i just wanted to say that i like what you're doing. i wish i could do more to stand up for people the way you do. keep up the good work.

This is where it starts, Drew. Setting a good example. Unfortunately, people are often like sheep and if they see everyone "ripping on faggots" they'll do likewise. However, if people see you treating your gay friends with respect then they may change their minds. There's no reason to be friends with gay people just because they're gay--that's disingenuous. But there's no reason to make fun of gay people just for the hell of it either. We should have respect for all people and if you don't like hanging around with gay people because you don't share the same interests or your personalities conflict, then don't hang around with them. Give a polite hello and keep to your own business or hang out with your straight friends. I've just never understood why people (especially in highschool) go out of their way to make someone else's life miserable because they're different in some way? Different people are often interesting in my view--not always nice or comfortable to be around, but definitely people you can learn something from. And in the real world you may end up working with someone who's gay (I have on a number of occasions) so get over yourself. It could effect your job if you can't.

Hey.
I found your site through A-F Records but I have also found Phelps site through a link on Anti-Flag’s site. I would just like to point out first that it sickens me that people can’t just live together without segregating people’s beliefs, customs or choices in life. They choose there paths and they should be supported for making those decisions. I find the preaching’s of Phelps a bit maniacal and I believe he should stop trying to be Moses and declare the laws of god. I’m 15 years of age, I just made my confirmation and I use to attend church regularly. Although I’m not very religious, I have found that God loves everyone (Even those who have sinned a great deal in there lives) as long as you love him back and believe in him. What Phelps has done is disgusting and disrespectful to Matthew, his family and the rest of the homosexuals and bisexuals who have chosen their lifestyles. I am happy to know that there are bands like Anti-Flag out there to try and tell the world the awful outcomes of war and hate and to prove that Phelps is wrong and that his ways will eventually send him to hell. No wait, better yet, not hell, but prison. I am extremely upset at this issue and I would really like it if you sent me feedback on the subject to actually talk to someone else about how they feel and there views on this pressing matter. Thanks for your time!
Ryan M.

Thanks to Anti-Flag's site for linking up to GHH.com . If you think this site is controversial you should check out their lyrics--even I might find some of their ideas controversial but then I love opinionated people.

Jeff,
i just wanted to let you know that i love your your website. I am heterosexual guy who is disgusted at the amount of homophobic people i know. The sad part is that most of these people fear homosexuals and fear that they might be one. i admit I used to be like this. however, I realised that this was pathetic of me when somebody very close to me told me he was gay. A another scary thing is the amount of people who use turns like " thats gay" in a derrogatory way as part of their everyday language.
Peace love understanding,
Alex
P.S. i read about fred melps website, man that dudes a retard
P.P.S print this if u want to

I'm torn on the whole slang thing where the term "Gay" can refer to something that's stupid, silly, retarded or girly. I don't use the term myself (mostly out of respect) but on the other hand I'm not sure if I find it offensive or not. I don't like giving words so much power that they become taboo. The real issue I think is if the kids using the term know what it is they're saying. The same issue occurs when I hear white, hispanic or asian kids use the word "nigger" because they're imitating their favorite rap artists. Is that appropriate? Probably not but then you have a lot of black rap artists commercializing music to kids who may not be ready to understand their lyrics. My rule with questionable words is know what kind of company you're in. If you're with friends and its acceptable because everyone knows what your intent is then talk freely, but don't use such words in polite company, at work, classrooms, or in front of little kids who imitate rather than comprehend. And if you have gay friends ask them what they think. Not all gay people think alike, some may find the slang "gay" to be offensive and some may not. We live in a society that gives far too much power to words instead of understanding words in the context of a sentence so unfortunately you have to be careful about offending everyone. If a gay person told me that I absolutely, positively could not ever speak aloud the word "faggot" I might just rebel there on the spot and say it. Not to be deragatory or insulting but rather to take the power out of the word--which by the way was one of Lenny Bruce's ideas to take the power out of the word "nigger."

RELIGIOUS REACTIONS

I really enjoy your website. Myself as a protestant christian was very angered by godhatesfags.com and their twisted warped message. The bible states that homosexuality is an abomination to god but it also states that we (as christians) are to love everyone, no matter who or what they are. The pastor, if you can even call him that, that runs godhatesfags.com is just another person to take the bible and warp it for his own personal views. I applaud your site and totally support it.
Unsigned

If the Bible states that "homosexuality is an abomination" than I'm not sure Phelps did warp the Bible. And I'm not sure the Bible says that Christians are to explicitly love everyone (maybe a Christian reading this can give me some verses, otherwise I'll have to look it up sometime). Most of the statements in the Bible are conditional love. If you love God, he loves you back. If you reject God, he sends you to hell. If you can't figure out if God exists, he still sends you to hell. If you belong to ancient tribe that believes in animism and have never heard of the gospel, you still go to hell. There are Old Testament laws on putting people to death for adultery and homosexuality and Jesus didn't say he had come to abolish those laws. He came to forgive sins but if some of those OT laws are still in effect then there may be consequences to those sins. That is, according to the Bible and depending on how you interpret the Bible.
I guess what my point is is that the Bible is a little hard to figure out as a cohesive whole. And to be able to apply it to modern times, that makes it even more confusing. I'm not sure Phelps is wrong according to the Bible so much as I think he's wrong according to the tolerance of our modern times and our growing acceptance of diverse lifestyles.

Hey what's up man?
I got your site by a Punk band called Anti-Flag, they posted you link up. What can I say? I love your sight, it's funny as hell. One thing I want to say is that Christanity does not preach hate on homosexuals, yes it says it's wrong. But didn't God say to love everyone? What I don't get dude is how people who call themselves christians (People who try to live like Christ) are constantly preaching hate? Do you think Jesus would preach hate about homosexuals? I don't think so I think he would love them just like he told us to do to our fellow neighbors.
Well recently in World History class we had a debate on Gay Marriage. And My God what can I say? I come from a small rural town in Virginia, it's basically a bible belt and when I get old enough I am movig away from here ( I'm 15 right now). Anyway we started the debate and things were going good, until this one girl stood up and started syaing how she was raised by a Christian family ( Like I was), and how her family taught her to hate gays, and hate bi racial marriage and all this Facsist shit.
Anyway she started crying and I mean crying, and all the people who were agasint gay marriage were on her side saying it was the homosexuals fault for making her cry. I was like what the fuck?
Anyway, after class eveyrone just kinda stared at her down the hall, I could have swore she was related to the phelps :P j/k.
Anyway if you could just write back you seem like an awsome guy, and I think more and more people are learning homosexuals are people just like me and you, just different sexual preferences.

I have to say your website is wonderful. I am technically a Catholic, but not because I wanted to be. Over the years I have come to despise my religion as well as all Christian religions because of their past and present controversies, one major part dealing with the hatred of homosexuals as well as the hypocracy of the priests. When I first opened your sight I couldn't help but laugh at the cartoons and the first commentary in the green. It was nice to see someone take such a heavy political issue and poke fun at it without losing its importance. Thank you so much for taking the time and energy to create this, I wish I knew how to help because it's such a good cause to fight for.
- Caitlin

I don't think anyone should have to be Catholic if they don't want to be. Actually, I think they're are some great Catholics out there, but I usually find they don't take the Pope too seriously. At least in America, I know mainstream Catholics are using birth control... So why be homophobic if you're going to defy the Pope to begin with?

i just want to say that i agree with what you are saying, i dont know why people hate others for what they are and what they believ in. well i am also an athiest so i agree with your site more...oh and i read your stuff so i want to tell you my name is Maks....o yea are u an athiest too?

Well, I usually call myself an "agnostic-atheist" because too many people have a stereotype in mind when they hear "atheist." Basically agnostic-atheist is a word combo that simply means that because I cannot know for certain of the touted definitions of God or gods here on earth than as a result I do not currently believe in God or gods as defined by modern or ancient religion. If some new information comes along I will have to consider it.

Wasn't the bible writen by people who thought the world was flat? How can you take their word on a subject when they though t this world was as flat as a table? Why hasn't Fred Phelps been shot yet? Honestly, when is somebody just going to take the time out of their day and shoot that bastard? He's pissed off so many people, I'm suprized nobodys just taken a gun to him. Send him down to see ol' hob. Ok, I'm just kidding please don't shoot him or anything, or if you do it was SO not my idea. Hopefully he'll die a painfull death in prison after being butt raped by a 300 pound inmante... Probably not, but hey, its an idea?
Unity-Hannah

Whoa! Blasted and butt-raped. I know you're not serious either but a little verbal assault sometimes relieves the anger we feel at such stupidity.

Hey,
Just wanted to give a thumbs up on the site. Recently, I've been debating a bunch of religious fucktards that no matter how many good points I bring up, they still say I'm wrong for being supportive of equal rights for homosexuals, such as the right to get married. They in turn, somehow think they are insulting me by calling me a lesbian (I'm a bisexual, but they don't care about at least being correct in their labels). Finally I just have to say "let's agree to disagree" because they will throw out-of-context scripture in my face and try to put me down by saying I'm disgusting and going to hell. I find it ironic how worked up they get, and I keep my cool and don't let what they say bothers me.
Next time I get into an argument with them, I want to refer them to your site. You rock :)
-Amanda

"Fucktards," that still cracks me up. Okay, maybe not everyone who is homophobic is a "fucktard." Maybe some of them have just gotten lost in their thinking and need to question why they really think the way they do. Of course some homophobes are fucktards because, as in Pastor Phelps case, they are abusive, bitter people who need help.

dude,
first off let me say that I really think its awesome what you’re doing. it’s good to know that non-religious people realize that not all religious people are fanatical conservative hatemongers. I live in berkeley, and most people here seem to have a very close-minded view of religious people, when for the most part I am as liberal as they are.
second off, as a reverend, I don’t think fred phelps is being spoken to by the devil. I just think he is an overtly fascist idiot who interprets the word of God in vastly incorrect ways. the devil very rarely does speak to humans, and the only time that he would probably do something is when he comes to deceive us as the Anti-Christ, as is prophesied in Revelation.
Thank you for your time, and keeping spreading the message of acceptance and tolerance.
-Tim

Tim's right. I'm not religious, but I do understand that all religious people are not spiteful and ignorant. Extremists seem to like to make religion look bad and while I'm happy to debate the existence of God, The Devil and the legitimacy of The Bible I am very hesitant to use blanket terms when it comes to religious individuals. Some are idiots, some are intelligent, and some are just average churchgoers raising their families. I doubt very much that a majority of religous people want to be associated with hatemongering, at least that's what my gut tells me in America. I could be wrong.

Yea you guys are real Christians telling people they are going to hell!
That is awful. I am a Christian and i can tell you now God is dissapointed
in you.
PuNk~OuT,
love holly

I'm still not sure if this was directed at me or what? I guess it was because the e-mail subject line read "Your Cartoon Site Thing." But again, how does Holly know that God is disappointed?

thank you for making this website. i'm a christian and i support gay, lesbian, and bisexual people. two of the people i adore the most are bisexual and gay. most christians [mainly the bapstists] are extreme by making sites like godhatesfags.com, which i dont agree with. please keep the site up and running and poke as much fun as possible at the godhatesfags site. it's hilarious and necessary.
SB

Margie Phelps knows nothing but that she is scared of gay people. The bible may make some reference to say that homosexuality is wrong...but to get this out of that passage you have to twist and contort the passage and bring it out of context. What i know is that the bible clearly states, that god loves all his children.
Love Makes family
Tim Curtis

Actually I would have to say that parts of the Bible emphasize love while others are suspect. My feeling on this is that religion needs to keep up with modern times otherwise it will die out. We are talking about a book written by men from another time; men with personal biases about women, homosexuality, other religions and so forth. And the Bible also contains outdated laws for living. It is obvious that it needs to be interpreted historically but for practical use it should be interpreted in light of our modern understanding of gender and sexuality. And for the most part this is what is happening , unless you're a fundamentalist or a literalist who insists on obeying every word in the Bible regardless of how ridiculous it is.

RELIGIOUS REACTION is continued here:

IF YOU'RE GAY, SAY HEY

I didn't intend to separate e-mails from the gay community into a separate section but then I received this one, which was very well written. Not just because it's positive, but some thought was put into it. I'll put other reactions here too, even if they're negative.

Jeff,
This is brilliant. I'm a 22 year old, gay male. I've seen GodHatesFags.com, and I was completely repulsed. I attended Michigan Pride 2003, and I recall seeing the picketers across the street, a man yelling through his megaphone, etc. I didn't think a thing of it at the time, but later realised that this was probably the Insane Phelps Posse. No one paid them any mind, and any utterances through that megaphone of his were unintelligible beneath the booming of the music playing through the speakers set up on the stage, and the clamour of many happy fags.
Perhaps the best scheme I've heard of, however, for dealing with the I.P.P. that I have seen, is detailed at http://www.autbar.com/fred_phelps_press_release.htm. You might find it of interest. It puts a positive spin on a negative situation, and it worked quite well. Keith Orr and Martin Contreras concocted a scheme within just two days to use Phelps' presence in front of their bar for a good purpose. Using that scheme, they raised over six thousand dollars for a local gay-advocacy group and community center. Who knew Fred Phelps could be used to help the people he's trying to harm?
I love the site, and I also rather like the term you used, "agnostic-atheist". Your description of it concisely construes how I feel. Thanks for your time, and thanks again for this great website. I've spent about four hours here -- it's that good.
Yours,
Mike

You're right. Fred Phelps should be exploited for all he's worth; the clown-prince of fundamentalism and hate.

Hi,
I’m a twenty-three year old gay man from Madison, WI (a place that’s as known for its large gay community as it is for its radical, sometimes militant, liberals). Being bombarded daily with “the importance of speaking out against homophobia” and “doing your part for the community”, it is so often easy to forget that we have to have a sense of humor and see the irony in things…thank you for your wonderful site and your politically incorrect humor…its something we all need.
Phelps and various other religious figures make an annual pilgrimage to Madison to stand on campus with their signs and their hate. While it’s very tempting to stop and yell at them and protest their claims that “god hates fags”, I find it much more effective to point and laugh or just completely ignore them. Stopping to actually talk to one of these misguided individuals only furthers their notion that their platform has legitimacy in our city…we all know that their purpose is to try and make their point and we all know what their retort will be if we try to state ours. Hence, by not giving them the satisfaction of engaging in conversation, their presence and hate-speech is a lot of hot air that signifies nothing, right? Right.
I also want to give a big shout out to all of you teenagers who have written into this site…you are all wonderful and it elates me to hear you say that you won’t put up with hatred. I still feel that the most effective way to end the cycle of hate is to instill in youth that it’s simply NOT COOL to hate people for their sexual orientation or any other aspect that sets them apart from the majority. For years, people have been teaching youth not to succumb to peer pressure when it pertains to drug/alcohol use, casual sex, what-have-you…hell, if peer pressure has proven to be an effective hazard in those areas, let’s use it for something good and combat homophobia! Like the webmaster said, don’t feel like you need to go out and befriend a homosexual to be trendy or prove that you AREN’T homophobic…just don’t befriend the assholes out their who think it’s okay to bash gays or presume to know how god feels about them. And hey, if you feel strong enough about the issue to speak out against homophobia in your own community, my hat is off to you.
I think where Phelps and his “flock” are completely off-base is the idea that being gay is a choice. I, and many other homosexuals, will tell you that given the mentality in this country, our sexuality was NEVER a choice…bottom line is that I like dick…I don’t want to be hated or killed for that fact but it’s something that I can’t do shit about…Phelps’s daughter says that black people shouldn’t be hated for their skin color because they have no control over it….how can she even presume to KNOW that the same doesn’t hold true for gays and lesbians? It is unfortunate that they can’t even begin to entertain this idea.
Again, this is a great rebuttal to Phelps’ site…while you may not think that this site is anything championing gay rights, I think you should be commended for what you create….thank you.
Jesse Thurber

And I'm glad to see Jesse gets the point of the site. I think there's been a misconception put out by the religious right that homosexuals are out to take over the heterosexual lifestyle. Yes, there are radical gay activists who go overboard in their enthusiasm and yes there are irrational gay people who are easily offended, however, I would guess that the majority of Gay men and women are more like Jesse. They just want to be your neighbor, classmate, co-worker, teacher, or political leader without being held back or unfairly judged because they happen to be gay. I mean who wants to spend their life having to defend who they were born to be?

From People Who Do Not Know What The Word "Homophobe" means...

 Okay, over time I've collected quite a few e-mails chewing me out for being a hate site--because they do not understand what the word "homophobe" means. Apparently they think it means the same thing as homosexual. "Homophobe" was a politically correct word that has now entered our mainstream vocabulary and it means"Fear of Homosexuals". So the name of the site can be translated as "God Hates Those Who Have A Fear of Homosexuals." But really this site has more to do with outright hate than fear. There are many people in the world who fear what they cannot understand but very few take it to the extremes that the site godhatesfags.com does. Anyways here's some letters from those who think I hate homosexuals. And by the way, I responded to each one politely explaining the meaning of homophobe (okay, I might have used a little sarcasm) and those that responded back with an apology I have omitted.

I think your an asshole and you have no idea what the fuck you are talking about. You let some fucking religon make you a sounvabitch. Think for yourself you idiotic fuck.
Unsigned

After I e-mailed back to this person that they might not be understanding the satirical intent of my site they sent me this. Oh and I also asked for their name because I figure, regardless of who you are and who you're going after, you should sign your name to your rant. Anonymous e-mails always seem cowardly to me, as well as they tend to lack intelligence.

If my name is such a big deal well than its Rachel. How is this excactly a poor thought out e-mail? I tihkn your an idiot judging people like that.. Its not exactly their fault their gay. If you have a problem with that whatever but dont you think it kinda hurts them when they see a site like this. I Think this is probably the worst site I have ever saw.
(FROM RACHEL)

Y'know, I sent one more e-mail trying to explain what a "homophobe" is and she may have finally gotten a clue, but again--no apology. I've made plenty of mistakes on debating e-zines to the point of major embarrassment, but I always apologize to individuals if I misinterpreted their arguments or attributed something to them that was not true. People need to learn to apologize more. It's a good quality in an individual because it means someone learned from their mistake.

Do you have something against gay people? If you do thats just wrong! They can do whatever they want and the don't need you to give them crap.
UNSIGNED

Haven't given Gay people any crap lately. Makes a lousy present.

Oddball Letters

I'm a 17 year old girl and i was watching the tv today when i saw your GOD HATES FAGS.COM page and it made me so mad to know that some people really think that god HATES eneyone. God loves all people, just because he does not like what some people do dose not mean that he dose not love them. JESUS DIED FOR ALL MAN KIND. IN COULDING FAGGGGGGS. Are you people so sin less that god lets you through the STONS you all are throughing? God loves all no mater their sex, color, or if their are GAY. You all are not CHRISTIAN people you are all HYPECRITES............

PLEASE WRITE BACK!!!!!!!!!
SPIXIEGIRL16.COM
Samantha E

I'm not sure if Samantha knows that this site is not Godhatesfags.com . Fact is, I have no idea why I get e-mails intended for Godhatesfags.com unless you want me to post your e-mail here. That's fine but let me know somewhere in the e-mail that you are simply forwarding a copy of your response to Fred Phelps' hate-site, otherwise I just figure you're confused.
Also I hate to be anal, but when you write a hate-site try to use the spellcheck. You want to come off as intelligent even if you are pissed off. If you don't come off as intelligent, you never know when your e-mail may be used by godhatesfags.com as an example how uneducated pro-gay sympathizers are. It's best not to give the opposition ammo. Be clear and concise and just use the damn spellcheck--it takes a couple of seconds and its on almost every e-mail program.

it is deeply disturbing and painful to see the way you act and feel. i send my heart out to all the gays and lesbians out there that have to deal with sick fucks like yourself. what in your right mind allows you to belive that gays are fags and that it is wrong. so what? they like the same sex. its like the way you enjoy some food and despise others. you cant help the fact that you dont like certain foods the way some people dont have sexual feelings towards the opposite sex. people wonder why the world is so hateful and full of violence. its all because of the hate you have. hate crimes are horrible and caused by folks like yourself. I hope when your laying in bed at night, trying to fall asleep you cant. and that you feel like a shit head because you should. You should also keep in mind that you have caused suicides. death. how do you feel now? you god damn murderer. I will always hope that sick fucks like you will someday change.
~Tessa
North Potomac, MD

Again, I assume this was intended for godhatesfags.com but was sent to me or a copy was sent to me but there was no explanation in the e-mail. Just let me know what's up when you send a copy of your response. And if it isn't a copy I don't forward them on to godhatesfags.com .

how can you listen to anti-flag and be religious? anti-flag is against religion, it is just confusing to me how people can support seperation between say christians and catholics, yet still support and listen to a band that is against seperation....of any kind.
Unsigned

I didn't really know how to respond to this. Originally I assumed it was directed towards the webmaster so I said something to the extent that personally, I'm not religious, but even if I was what's wrong with listening to music with an alternative viewpoint or even an opposing viewpoint. Hell, I even listen to some Christian bands on occasion if their music is good. And as far as I've listened to Anti-flag they do not blatantly seem anti-religious, though I haven't researched it so I guess it's possible. To me Anti-Flag is more anti-nationalism (hence their name) which I do not necessarily agree with. I think you can take pride in your country or your country's ideals without having to take pride in a corrupt administration, corrupt government or corrupt history. In the USA, the meaning of patriotism has been warped by current war events to mean you can't question your leaders. Patriotism, in my mind, is having a concern for your country and that concern extends to critiques of leaders who are damaging the country. Oh well, no need to ramble on about the interpretation of patriotism. And so then I received this in response:

i didn't mean you imperticular......more jusrt people that wrote in. as for christians and catholics. those were just the 1st two that popped into my mind, i guess i meant christians vs. muslims or protestants vs. catholics.
Unsigned

Still don't know what that means. I don't think this is a religion versus religion or denomination versus denomination issue. Regardless of religion, hate is hate. While I think religion needs to be examined for truth, I also think religion is used as justification to hate. Most religious people want to live their lives in peace. Hate is a waste of time.

"Hate is bad for the heart, both spiritually and physically."[this person quoted from the site in order to make her point]
YET THE NAME OF YOUR SITE IS GODHATESHOMOPHOBES.COM
WOW DO I SMELL LARGE DOSES OF HYPOCRISY HERE...
IF THE WORLD WAS MORE OF AN ACCEPTING PLACE THAN YOU WOUL'NT HAVE ALL THE HATRED THAT IS INSUING IN OUR CORRUPT SOCIETY.
JUST BECASUE YOU LOVE DIFFERENTLY..or maybe it was always ment for people to love others of the same sex!.. DOES NOT MEAN YOU SHOULD GET VERBALLY AND PHYSICALLY ATTACKED! THAT IS JUST PLAIN IGNORANT AND FASCIST DRIVEN!! OPEN UP YOUR HEARTS AND MINDS, AND ACCEPT EVERYONE REGARDLESS OF WHO THEY CHOOSE TO LOVE!!
love, peace and unity...
-kelly...a straight but def non ignorant chik....

It's a parody! The whole point of the site is that no one knows who God hates. Think about the title, do you really think I'm serious about hating homophobes or telling them God hates them? Hell no. Again, I get the feeling she thinks, I the webmaster, am gay. And again that's not true. I also must point out that even if I was serious I could still stand behind the quote. I never said I hated homophobes, I only claimed God hated homophobes.

hello, your site is funny, do you think , GOD CREATED HOMOSEXUALS! i thought god never made mistakes?

Okay, I interpreted this as a slam against homosexuals and gave a polite response about not knowing what God thinks and why we shouldn't be quick to judge what we can't always understand. Next I received:

hi, i just read all the stuff on your site, are you gay? lol

So I replied to this person that if they had read everything on the site then they would know that I had stated that I am not gay. And to the next email from the same person:

hey, sorry i didnt read all your stuff, i asumed you were gay because most heteros woundnt agree with what you are saying.

And so my response to this was that the majority of "heteros" that sent me e-mails were in agreement with me. But my mistake apparently was assuming this person was homophobic because then we read the next one:

maybe i did not make my self clear, i am gay. i dont consider it a (life style) do you consider being straight a life style? it is encourging that young people are more accepting, of homosexuality. why does it matter what people do in private? people who spread hate in the name of relegion are ignorant, phelps could use some converstion therapy , in my opinion.

The first sentence sums it up. This person did not make themself clear. The comments led me to believe that someone was poking fun or being critical. I apologized but to be quite honest I still wonder if this person was yanking my chain. I also had to define the word "lifestyle" and defend my usage of it. Again people are offended by "words" rather than context. The lesson here is please express yourself intelligently and clearly. I get weird e-mails all the time just like this and I usually assume that they're from kids trying to be smartasses.

Religious Reactions CONT.

It is strange from my perspective too how preventing "gay marriage" can be part of our President's agenda. But then he knows he is appealing to the majority's secret and sometimes not-so-secret fears. I'd like to think that the majority of Americans are not that fearful but when change comes upon a society like ours it can be a painful process. It is notable that while many Americans are against gay marriage they will concede to allowing "civil unions." But to me marriage these days is about legalities. Traditional marriage is slowly dying out because marriage is no longer exclusively for procreation, and sex is more for pleasure than to pop babies out. I'd like to see many of these right-wing conservatives live up to "traditional marriage" as it once was: woman in the home, no birth control, one income, and the man is the head of the household. Especially the new crop of young, attractive female Christian conservatives who like to see themselves on TV but who,I highly doubt, have the faith to let God be in charge of their wombs.

Ok man first off thank you for making a site against that fucking nutcase. I was reading your feedback from people and I read feed back from Marge Phelps (which im assuming is his wife) WHAT BIBLE IS SHE READING!!! I mean come on I couldn't finish it , it was to stupid. I have never read anything more ignorant in my life. And in any part of your site did you guys say you don't believe in god ? NO I don't know where she comes up with this preachy stuff telling you that people like you that don't believe in god will die when he/she comes. Plus since when dose god hate? hmm I have never read any part of the bible saying that god hates any one they never use that word hate. there making Christianity less and less appealing. People like that shouldn't breed
thank you very very much
you friend
nathan lawson CA

Well, it's true that Margie assumes that people who disagree with her are not true Christians or disbelievers, but I think I previously did say that I, the webmaster, did not necessarily subscribe to any one religion. And again, The Bible does have its questionable moments where God orders the slaughter of women, children and beasts or drowns everyone--could be an indicator of hate to some. But then again, who speaks for God now-a-days?

I believe that everyone should get over themselves. The close-minded anyway. If you haven't already noticed, pretty much every religion is the same in a way. They're all about where we came from, why we're here, and where we'll go when we die, period. People should be more open-minded and realize that, for one, this website is about how those Gay Bashing websites are stupid and that "God" is a pure and kind soul that loves everyone, regardless; and two, people don't need to get so pissy over whether there is a God or not. I'm not saying I don't believe in him because I'm not quite sure yet. But there are lots of different religions out there, who's to say which one is "for real". For all we know, they could all be linked into one in some way. Personally, I'm starting to get into the Buddhist religion. It makes more sense to me. Anyway, just because someone is a homosexual, doesn't mean they're a "sinner". They could be in a Christian's eyes. But they sin too. Everyone sins, no matter what. My step dad grew up a catholic and his parents are hardcore bible-bangers but that doesn't mean he doesn't sin. he used to have a lot of porn on his computer and he'd always go to nude beaches...while he was married! My point is, everyone sins, no matter what your religion is or what you believe in. So get over it.
-A young but wise Native American, "Gentle Fawn"-

Hi Jeff! Thanks for your note...
Just a quick note...you mention you are not religious...do you realize you are "doing" your ministry for Christ right NOW!!!...through GHH!!! THIS is what you have called to do and you are doing a mighty fine job!
Your warning..."Christianity must change..."...have you heard of Bishop John Shelby Spong's "Why Christianity Must Change or Die"? He covers the exact homily you espouse above. If you get a chance to read it, please do.
Again, my sincerely thanks/gratitude for your labor of love...God loves you...and so do I!
In His Service!
Dak! (George M!)

This was in response to another e-mail I will post in "Encounters with the Phelps" but it would be nice if every religous leader was as cheerful and as friendly as this.

To whom it may concern,
I don't know what bible she is reading out of but she had better get her own concordance out and study deeper into the things of GOD. I heard Margie on a local tv news show and believe me it was sick. My Dad is a baptist preacher . He is one who preaches HELL hot , but let me tell you that the reason more souls is going to hell is because of this Quack. Margie has no compassion not to mention as a so called christian she sure isn't christ like with her message. The whole time she was on the show she was rude and in-tolerable. If her father is the pastor then how come he can't speak for his own church? I noticed that she was the only speaker so, if she reads her bible then she would know that women are not suppose to be over the man, or is that the part she can't quote? I can tell you that I used to be a lesbian but guess what I am saved and going to heaven and there is nothing she can do or say to change that. I can't help but feel sympathy for her. Christ said we are to forvive men 70x7 times, then it also says that if we can't forgive he can't forgive us. Now the best thing is that God sent his son for WHOSOEVERS and therefoe we are all whosoevers. If she says this is a lie then I would have to say, MARGIE YOU ARE GOING TO HELL......You have recieved a counterfeit given by the devil. God saves FAGS, he saves the drunks and the filthy. If he didn't then noone could make it to heaven ,so think twice about being non-compasionate try loving people and you may see more saved..... phil.4:13
Lisa

Found your site some how. I think it was on some forums that I found of someone posting godhatesfags.com. God does not hate gays. He just doesnt like their actions. I am a Cristian and I found that site and that church to be all wrong. Theres one thing you have to understand here. Some churches and some websites are wrong and they sometimes twist bible verses to fit in with THEIR beliefs. They say that sometimes theres no hope for a gay to go to heaven after they cross a line. they say theres a line that you can cross and that God will give up on you. This is untrue. God does NOT give up on people. He loves everyone. Jesus loves everyone. God just doesnt like the sin. Yes, all sins are the same in Gods eyes. Why do preacher always preach about gays though? well let me answer that question. Thats the only sin that people go out and say they have pride in. you know. the gay pride movement. that gets the preachers to preach more about it to get to peoples head that isnt right. You dont see parades of serial killers or parades of people who cheat on their wives or husbands. They are ashamned of their sins. That is why people always talk about it. I can show you bible verses where it says that being gay is wrong and against God. Also, to tell you the truth. almost everything is against God. Thats why you get saved. and repent your sins. stealing a pack of gum or killing someone or cheating on someone or being gay. Them 4 sins are all the same in Gods eye. A sin is a sin. You have to repent your sins every day. I had this friend. He was gay. he turned Christian. Now he isnt gay. God will save anyone. white, black, homosexual, straight. anyone. You ask about gay churches? well sorry to say the people in that church isnt really saved. cause if your saved and your going to heaven and you repent your sins then you can not be gay. its an abomination to God. All the gays who turn christian also turns straight. Please understand that yes there is alot of people who teach the wrong things. but there are also alot of people who teach it right. Please dont hate Christians for the people who teaches it wrong. People sometimes read verses and say "ooo herr this must mean this" without researching. I play alot of video games. I wanted a cheat for one of them. I went to a site and entered the code that was on the site. nothing happened. went to another site for the same game. entered the code that was on their site and it worked. what im trying to say is some churches/websites get the wrong info tangled up. and some churches/webpages teach it straight with no mess ups. Just like them video game cheat sites Just like almost any site you see on the internet. you know? Thank you for your time in reading this. If you have any questions or anything.. email me back..

-Joey

Joey and I debated a bit about God, The Bible and so forth. If he continues to question and think about the issues some more he might arrive at some truths. I've always found it odd that being "Gay" is targeted as the ultimate sin (even though many Christians don't like to admit it). I guess the question is can someone be living in sin and still be saved? Apparently Pat Robertson is saved, but I can't imagine a man with more "pride." Ted Bundy was apparently saved before being fried but I can't imagine a man more deserving of hell. Fact is, when I was a Christian in my youth I often lusted for women (remained a virgin but boy did I lust) so if I was run over by a truck looking at a Bikini magazine would I go to heaven or hell? I suppose Joey would say Heaven because I recognized that my lust was sin, however if I really recognized it as sin why did I still do it? My point is, even if the Bible is true it doesn't cover all the bases--we need a list of examples of what's going to send us to hell and what isn't and what are the exceptions? Because if accepting Jesus washes away all our sins then why can't Gay people be Christian? They may be mistaken about Homosexuality not being a sin but aren't they covered for it? Okay, I'm not religious but aren't these questions appropriate to ask when someone claims to know who's going to hell and who's going to heaven?