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Great American Youth Debates
- May 15, 2021 9AM-12PM (PST)
- Virtual Program
- Cash Prizes & awards
Great American
Oratorical Speech Contest
2021 Topics
Poverty & Economic Inequality
Race relations in the United States
The future of American Democracy
Government & political polarization
Eligibility: Grades 9-12 (including graduating seniors)
Program Description: Great American Youth Debates (GAYD) is an enriching educational program that brings together youth leaders from diverse backgrounds and communities to find solutions to important issues facing their communities. This year, our youth leaders have chosen to address the issue: ‘With Liberty and Justice for All.’
Contest Information
- Selected applicants will be required to write and present a five-minute persuasive speech based on a selected topic.
- Judges will evaluate each presentation based on speech organization, content, and speaker persuasiveness.
- Speaker scores will be combined for an overall point total.
- Top speakers will advance to the final rounds of competition.
- $1,500 first place prize.
How to apply
Complete and submit an online application by May 1st. Selected speakers will be provided with additional information regarding tournament rules and judging criteria.
Application Closed
Event Schedule:
Preliminary Rounds
Saturday, May 15th (9am-12pm)
Live via Zoom
Semi-Final Rounds
Saturday, May 15th (1pm-3pm)
Live via Zoom
Final Rounds
Saturday, May 29th
Time & Location To Be Announced