DES MOINES, Iowa — At the National Speech and Debate Tournament, Macon Smith, a 17-year-old high school junior, stood in a nearly empty classroom. Ready to debate, he began with, “When tyranny becomes law, rebellion becomes duty.” Just hours later, he was in another room, dismantling the same argument he had meticulously built.
More than 7,000 students converged in Iowa for this prestigious event, organized by the National Speech and Debate Association, celebrating its 100th anniversary. This tournament, especially vital in today’s divided society, brings students face-to-face with complex topics, fostering empathy and critical thinking.
“I don’t think there’s an activity in the world that develops empathy and listening skills like speech and debate,” said Scott Wunn, the organization’s president. “We’re continuing to create better citizens.”
Held in Des Moines, home to the association’s headquarters, the tournament saw students like Macon, a senior at Bob Jones Academy, engage in the Lincoln-Douglas Debate. This format, inspired by historical debates between Lincoln and Douglas, pushes students to argue both sides of an issue within 40 minutes.
Students tackled controversial topics, from presidential executive orders to historical debates on education. As Macon explained, “Even if I don’t personally believe it, I can still look at the facts and determine, OK, this is a good fact, or it’s true, and argue for that side.”
While students honed their skills, political discourse outside was chaotic, with public figures frequently clashing. However, speech and debate clubs provide a platform for civil discourse. “It gives a kid a place to speak out and have a voice,” said Gail Nicholas, a coach at Bob Jones Academy.
Despite not advancing in the tournament, Macon values the friendships and perspectives gained. The club cultivates understanding across political divides, fostering a deeper comprehension of issues. “You don’t want to burn down a bridge before you make it with other people,” Macon noted.
Challenges exist in sustaining these programs. Many schools lack coaches, and the commitment required is substantial. “It’s a major time commitment for teachers,” said David Yastremski, a seasoned coach. Yet, the impact on students is profound, as they learn to navigate complex public policy nuances.
Despite disruptions at the tournament, including a security scare, the event concluded with champions celebrating their achievements. Angad Singh, a student from Bellarmine College Preparatory, won for his speech on Sikh identity, emphasizing the power of voice over passive hopes for change.
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