Not Up for Debate: How Safe Spaces & Speaking Up Leads to Lifelong Success

MORE THAN ARGUING: THE CASE FOR DEBATE

When you think of speech & debate, you likely think of people in suits, arguing behind big podiums on even bigger stages. Though building an effective argument is a key aspect of the activity, it’s far from the full picture. For 9 years, The Practice Space has hosted a highly acclaimed summer camp for teens to hone their speech & debate skills. Julia, a participant from last year’s camp, reflects on her expectations prior to attending. “My first idea of camp was that it was going to be hard,”  Julia admits. “I was just expecting to walk into a room and be told to argue.”

Following the camp’s conclusion, Julia can now say: “The Practice Space really has done a lot more than just that.” Participants learn the various structures of debate, as well as general skills on how to communicate effectively and articulate their ideas. “I didn't expect to learn this much,” Julia says, impressed. Knowing how to build an argument is important, but speech & debate also improves your ability to speak publicly, form opinions, think critically, identify misinformation, question existing conditions— the list goes on. By being equipped with these skills, students are able to do more than win competitions; they’re able to advocate, lead, and set themselves up for future success.

SPEECH & DEBATE NEEDS SAFE SPACES

Another participant from last year’s teen camp, Becky, shares her story. “I have been going to the Practice Space since I was eight years old,” Becky begins, “and now I'm an incoming junior [in high school].” Her loyalty to The Practice Space can be attributed to the skills she learns each year, but also to the safe and welcoming space we create. Becky keeps attending because of the joy, comfort, and support our camp provides.  Learning in an overtly competitive or hostile environment is downright impossible. All human beings, regardless of age, background, and identity, deserve safe spaces where they can access their authentic self and express their ideas. 

More specifically, debate often deals with controversial, political, and highly stigmatized topics. If the space is too charged and these conversations aren’t able to happen freely, many ideas and opinions are left unsaid. Fear prevents people from speaking out. On the other hand, when individuals are encouraged to be themselves and feel supported in that endeavor, speaking out doesn’t seem so scary. In spaces that feel warm and welcoming, people gain the confidence to use their voice by telling their story, sharing ideas, and advocating for issues they care about. Any space that allows people to be their true and authentic self should never be overlooked. 

By cultivating safe spaces in our programs, including summer camp, students can debate their ideas freely without fear of judgment or retribution.  “The Practice Space is very welcoming,” Kamran, a camp participant, remarks. “It's very easy to work in, and the teachers are very kind.” 

“The environment is really positive,” Julia adds. “I like debate because it gives me the confidence to speak up and be myself in front of people.”

DEBATE TODAY, LEAD TOMORROW

Students may choose not to continue speech & debate after high school or college, but the skills they learn will stick with them forever. Knowing how to build an argument, articulate your ideas, and communicate effectively are all crucial life skills that apply in nearly every context— whether in casual conversation, college classrooms, or the workplace. You may have the best idea in the world, but without the tools to communicate that idea, all you’re left with is confusion. You can’t connect with an audience that doesn’t understand. 

“I’m writing my own speeches now,” Becky says proudly. Instead of regurgitating information someone else wrote, she enjoys “talking about something I really believe in.” 

The Practice Space’s Teen Camp is not only creating safe spaces for students to learn speech & debate, we’re fostering the next generation of leaders. In our program, participants explore and argue for topics that are meaningful to them. They may still have anxiety surrounding public speaking, but they don’t let that fear stop them from using their voice to improve their community and the world as a whole. Change only happens with new ideas, actions, and perspectives.  Good leaders have the courage to both share their ideas and encourage others to do the same.

READY TO PUT IT INTO PRACTICE?

Sign up for our 2026 Teen Speakers Camp for a chance to practice speech & debate in a safe, welcoming environment. Participants will strengthen their public speaking abilities, prepare for tournaments, and learn key skills needed for lifelong success.  “Don't be nervous to put yourself out there,” Becky smiles. “Just try your best, and you'll have a lot of fun.” Details below:

Teen Speakers Camp

• July 13th-24th
• 10am to 2pm
• Ages 13-18
• The Practice Space office (317 11th St. Richmond, CA 94801)
• $300, limited scholarships available!
• Register here