Indeed, we condemn it. The overwhelming majority of students in the audience were well-behaved, even those who disagreed with Coulter's statements. Unfortunately, several individuals, both students and local community members, were not. Many students on both sides helped to calm the audience when tensions mounted. Coulter completed her speech and was escorted out of the lecture hall by one campus police officer, a university official belatedly summoned and several students.
Civil discourse requires thoughtfulness, and an academic community values enlightenment.
Ann Coulter is welcome to return to Cornell to discuss the conservative ideals she values. The students who sponsor her have an obligation to work within accepted university procedures. Students who attend may disagree with her, but should not react to provocative statements with abusive treatment of university guests. Both sides must work together to present a debate that inspires rational thought, not emotional response. Featuring original art, political humor and more.