This Friday, New York Times bestselling author and conservative columnist and pundit Ann Coulter will be speaking on the IU Bloomington campus for the first time in over a decade. Coulter’s upcoming speech, titled, “Conservatism. Let’s Review the Evidence,” has already generated a fair bit of controversy and excitement on campus, with well over a thousand students having expressed interest attending the event.
The speech, which was originally to be hosted in Hodge Hall but has since moved to the Whittenberger Auditorium inside the Union, is likely to be beset with protests, given the outcome of Coulter’s last visit to IU. The author’s 2006 speech at the university’s main auditorium was a chaotic display of protestors hurtling profanities and insults at Coulter, ushers trying desperately to escort the offending parties out of the venue, and IUPD working to maintain some semblance of order.
When asked by The Crimson Post if she’s excited to return to IU, Coulter, with her classic wit, replied, “Naturally! It’s the title of a Jackson 5 song.” And, in response to being asked why she chooses to speak at college campuses, environments that are naturally hostile towards her and her beliefs, she quipped, “Because their liberal professors are deeby and weird. The kids need a break.”
In addition to a speech by Coulter, the event will include a question and answer section where audience members can ask the author any burning questions they may have. And, although it’s currently unclear precisely what topics will be covered in Coulter’s speech, if past events can serve as any indication, it should be interesting. Coulter told The Post that attendees can expect, “clear and important analysis,” “freedom from the cant and pomposity of doddering stalinists on college faculties,” and, as always, “a surprise or two” from her speech.
Those wishing to attend Friday’s event can register here.
