Why Bother if You're Just Going to Censor?

The controversial best-seller, Ann Coulter is scheduled to give a talk at the University of Ottawa . But even before she stepped inside the campus, the school's provost warned her of Canada's tradition of "restraint, respect and consideration." Judging by some of her interviews, Coulter's talk should be, in a word, interesting. Here's one of her interviews on The Today Show:



National Post reports that University of Ottawa Academic Vice President and Provost Francois Houle e-mailed Coulter:

"Our domestic laws, both provincial and federal, delineate freedom of expression (or "free speech") in a manner that is somewhat different than the approach taken in the United States. I therefore encourage you to educate yourself, if need be, as to what is acceptable in Canada and to do so before your planned visit here."

He continued, "Promoting hatred against any identifiable group would not only be considered inappropriate, but could in fact lead to criminal charges."

In response to Houle's e-mail, Coulter wrote that she was "hoping for a fruit basket" from the university -- "not a threat to prosecute."

Coulter, while known primarily for her barbs aimed at the Middle East, has been critical of Canada. In the following video she remarks that Canadians "are lucky we allow them to exist on the same continent."


So my question is, why ask Coulter to speak in the first place if you are just going to censor her speech? I can understand why the University of Ottawa would want to invite a speaker that would expand horizons and cultivate discussions, but there are so many other people they can choose to come talk to the students.

I feel Coulter has the right to express her opinion and speak her mind even if I don't agree with what she says, but why bother spending the money on a speaker of you are just going to the censor them?