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Freedoms are for everyone

Freedom of speech is a powerful tool. All Americans and emigrants have the right to express opinions, regardless whether they're popular or biased.

Members of Westboro Baptist Church of Topeka have been traveling the state, exercising their right to speak and doing so by picketing funerals of fallen soldiers and other targeted groups, declaring their righteousness in the name of the Lord.

This group of vigilant radicals, who call themselves Christians, have not converted masses into their beliefs but rather have caused disdain among those who want to organize and/or attend such functions that may be targeted.

Take the soldier train scheduled to pass through Marion on Friday.

In the beginning, organizers did not want it publicized that the authentic steam locomotive was hauling soldiers who were wounded while serving this country which make it possible for all people — including those who hate and persecute them — to have freedoms.

However, the powers that be with Union Pacific, for whatever reasons, decided this past week to go ahead and let this community newspaper publicize that the passengers on that train will be soldiers.

I'd like to think that UP officials decided they were not going to be intimidated by the Bible-toting bullies and wanted these brave men and women to receive the recognition they have earned.

That's why it is so important for all of us in Marion and the surrounding area to come to the railroad crossing at 9:30 a.m. Friday to support the troops and their service.

It doesn't matter if you support the war effort or if you are a Democrat or Republican. This isn't about party lines or protesting. This is about saying "thank you" to those who willingly serve this country so we can live and play without fear.

— SUSAN BERG

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