REEDLEY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) - The City of Reedley has spoken out against the "incendiary and divisive" message spread by the Westboro Baptist Church ahead of their scheduled demonstration at Reedley High School. The City of Reedley announced Tuesday that they received a fax dated Oct. 3, 2024, from Phelps-Chartered, Attorneys-At-Law in Topeka, Kansas, announcing the organization's intention to conduct a religious service outside the gates of Reedley High School. ‘Stand up’: Local groups to counter Westboro Baptist Church valley visits Officials state the letter reads the public demonstration is, "regarding the judgment of God with respect to the dangers of promoting homosexuality, same-sex marriage, and the filthy manner of life and idol worshipping of this nation." As well as Reedley, the only other West Coast location to receive a visit from the Westboro Baptist Church is outside Roosevelt High School. City officials in Reedley say they do not know why their city was chosen. "Reedley is a diverse community that respects one another, honors one another, and treats one another with dignity," said Reedley City Manager Nicole Zieba. City officials state that while the organization is exercising its constitutional right to free speech and peaceable assembly, the city does not condone its message. Westboro Baptist Church to speak outside schools in Fresno, Reedley "As City employees, however, we have taken an oath to uphold the Constitution which guarantees them their right to free speech, regardless of how incendiary and divisive we may personally find their message. In that respect, the Police Department will be on hand to ensure a peaceful demonstration," Zieba said. Several organizations in Fresno County are expected to counter-protest Westboro's demonstration at both events. Officials urge all demonstrators to respect all local ordinances and traffic laws - especially regarding pedestrians on sidewalks or unlawfully blocking or entering roadways. The city reassures the public that the police department is working closely with Kings Canyon Unified School District personnel to ensure students and parents are safe. Police will be in front of the school on the day of the planned event.