Sexism in debate is an issue that has recently been brought to light by several. Through strong womxn taking a stand and voicing their concerns, the issue has been established. And desperate cries for action are being voiced everyday. But what action? The immediate “solution” everyone points out is awareness. This is a necessity, I…
Read more THE TRAP OF AWARENESS BY RIYA BINDLISH
When I joined debate as a freshman, I was told that I needed to find a male partner. The coaches who told me this meant well: as female debaters, they knew what kind of reception I’d get on the circuit with a female partner. I was pushy, I was loud, I was too combative to…
Read more WHEN THE GENDER ROLES SWITCH BY ZOE KAUFMANN
At this point in the year, most debate teams are trying to recruit underclassmen. Usually, these initial meetings are mostly female, while upperclassmen and club leadership are mostly male. Many girls will attend a tournament or two and then leave, deciding that debate is “not for them”. By the time they’re in 10th or 11th…
Read more HOW UNDERCLASSMEN ARE TREATED (AND HOW TO HELP) BY ZARA CHAPPLE