The Cone of Silence will be the symbol for the Free Expression Theme for the Academic Year 2023-2024.

The Cone of Silence is a defensive weapon that can be used to protect us from violent hate speech during the 2023-2024 academic year when we will have to put up with the Theme of Free Expression. The use of the Cone of Silence provides a middle way that will allow people to speak freely without inflicting harm on others.

Speakers, such as Ann Coulter, who promulgate hate and inflict harm on Cornellians, will be welcomed on campus during the 2023-2024 academic year. However, they will be required to use the Cone of Silence when on campus.

The Cone of Silence will also protect purveyors of hate from the hecklers’ veto.

Mini Cones of Silence will be available throughout campus so that people will be able to express themselves without fear of being heard.

At times of great inclusivity, the group Cone of Silence will be available.

Cornell University is currently negotiating with manufacturers to fabricate various sized group Cones of Silence from sustainable plant-based materials. These Cones of Silence will also have carbon sequestration features to sop up the carbon dioxide emitted by speech. These Cones of Silence will be adorned with the Cornell Seal that stands firm for free expression, and should be readily available in kiosks around campus.

What could be more beautiful than to see a diversity of viewpoints being expressed around campus in hundreds of Cones of Silence while at the same time inflicting no harm.