With the passage of landmark health insurance reform legislation, the reconciliation bill in the system, the midterms coming up this fall, and other issues, sometimes you just need a good laugh. For a first diary, this certainly isn't packed full of analysis, or deep thought. However, think you'll forgive me when you read it!
Toronto Star: Coulter cancels speech
I submit this article for your consideration and enjoyment.
Security officials have scrubbed American right-winger Ann Coulter’s speech at the University of Ottawa after a boisterous protest prompted concerns for her safety.
A spokesman for the group that organized the event said there were fears for Coulter’s well-being after about two thousand people gathered outside the venue to protest her presence there.
Commentary after the jump:
As you may or may not be aware, Canadians have some pretty strict standards when it comes to "hate speech." Besides it being a criminal offence, people tend to reject it pretty severely. Canadians have been stripped of the Order of Canada for hate speech.
We really don't appreciate it when people come from outside of the country attempting to peddle their hate.
Enter Ann Coulter, who was scheduled to give speeches at several universities in the country. To my immense pride in our country, and to her immense discomfort, Coultergeist (tm KO) who fancies herself an advocate of free speech, met its full power, in the form of THOUSANDS of Canadians protesting her very appearance.
What was her response? Unlike the recent heroic examples of Speaker Pelosi and her comrades wading through the protesters, Coulter cancelled. When faced with a little heat for her point of view, she crumbled and backed off.
Now, I just want to make one disclaimer on this laugh fest. I understand that universities are places where ideas are exchanged, and free speech is given very wide berth. I would have objected to the suppression of Coulter's participation. However, from my perspective, non-disruptively protesting her speech is fair game.
Funny how conservatives talk a big game about free speech when peddling their hate, but can't stand the heat of others exercising their rights to disagree!
Give a Canadian a hi-five next time you see one! We've got your backs up here!
UPDATE: h/t to MsLibrarian's diary for additional context as to Coulter's comments causing the protest. Telling Muslim students to go ride a camel is absolutely unacceptable!
SECOND UPDATE:
Video of Ms. Coulter's controversial comments here
Final Update:
Coulter organizers cancel event link indicates that it was her organizers, NOT the police who called it off.