Viewpoint Diversity

Every Voice Matters

Commitment to freedom of expression and viewpoint diversity

Building Better Citizens, Thinkers, and Leaders

The National Speech & Debate Association believes that every student should have access to speech and debate. We are committed to promoting freedom of expression and celebrating diverse perspectives and ideas from all of our students and coaches.

Our membership spans red, blue, and purple states; rural, urban, and suburban geographic regions; and public, private, religious, charter, and home schools. Participating in this community ensures students encounter a variety of viewpoints on some of the most pressing issues of our time. This diversity is what makes speech and debate so powerful. By researching and debating many sides of an issue, students learn to listen actively, engage in civil argument, and develop empathy for those who see the world differently.

Speech and Debate is a Learning Environment

At the NSDA, we believe that civil dialogue, active listening, and evidence-based argumentation are essential to learning and leadership. That’s why in speech and debate, students are encouraged to explore, listen to, and challenge ideas – even when the process is messy. Part of learning to use their voice means students are brilliant one moment and struggle the next. Judges, like referees in any sport, will do the same. These moments of failure help everyone grow. Through it all, the NSDA’s core values of Respect, Leadership, Equity, Integrity, and Service keep us grounded in what matters most: helping students find their voice while strengthening our community.

Navigating and Respecting Differing Opinions

Encountering new or differing viewpoints means students will encounter ideas they disagree with or find uncomfortable. These moments are essential to learning. Encouraging students to express challenging viewpoints within a guided learning space helps create an environment where all perspectives can be explored thoughtfully and respectfully.

Group of people with their hands on their shoulders facing away

For 100 years the NSDA has created a healthy marketplace of ideas where disagreement is productive, rather than divisive. Since our founding in 1925, we have upheld a strong commitment to viewpoint diversity. To ensure viewpoint diversity is respected inside as well as outside speech and debate rounds, our judge training and certification programs emphasize that personal or political beliefs must never influence competitive outcomes. This includes provisions at NSDA tournaments for removing judges and ballots that cite personal or political views as the basis for a decision.

Building Better Citizens, Thinkers, and Leaders

In times of national tension, communication becomes more challenging and more vital. Across the country, people look to our community for guidance on how to approach difficult conversations, navigate disagreements, and support young people as they learn to lead. Every day, in schools across the US , teachers and coaches are watching students grow, celebrating victories, and modeling the dialogue our society desperately needs. Join us as we help students find their voice, grow as thinkers and citizens, and strengthen the communities they will soon lead.

High School Students Find Common Ground on the Debate Stage

High School Students Connect Through Debate

The Hechinger Report highlights how debate helps students bridge divides and build understanding.

Why Senator Chuck Grassley Supports Speech & Debate

In these uncertain and divisive times, it’s critical for us to remember the importance of speech and debate and exemplify respectful discourse and thoughtful discussions.