Mickey Mouse Anti-Gay Protests by Operation Rescue

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Operation Rescue National is a group based in Texas whose mandate was originally confined to restricting women's access to abortion. They are now expanding their mission to oppose homosexuals.

On 1997-DEC-29, 75 to 100 anti-gay activists partially blocked entry to Disney world in Orlando FL. Some protestors held signs reading messages like: "Disney Promotes Homosexuality" and "If You Love Jesus, Turn Around," and "Homosexuality is an abomination to God." They handed out American Family Association literature to drivers of cars at a traffic light. This generated some heated interaction between motorists and activists. The resultant delays generated a two mile traffic backup. Three activists were arrested because they refused to obey a police officer's cease and desist order. They are Rev. Phillip "Flip" Benham, 49, executive director of Operation Rescue National, Matthew Scott Bowman, 22, of Wheeling, WV, and Seth Marschke 19, of Orland Park, IL.

Benham said that the issue is not just homosexuality, or abortion: "It's about whose law reigns, God's law or . . . Walt's or Mickey's or Michael Eisner's." (Michael Eisner is the CEO of Disney.)

Although the maximum fine for giving people literature as they drive by is $39, the three are being held on $500 bail.

Bill Warren, a Disney spokesman said that the company stands behind its products and won't prevent anyone from attending its parks. "We've tried to create a place where everyone feels welcome. We are clearly a company that believes strongly in nondiscrimination.''

References:

Phil Long, "Anti-gay group stages protest at Disney World," Miami Herald, 1997-DEC-30

Lesley Clark and Lenny Savino, "Disney protest brings 3 arrests. Operation Rescue leader, others slam policies on gays," Orlando Sentinel, 1997-DEC-30

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