Support Townsend Harris Public Forum Debate Team's Journey

"At that moment, I realized I had a passion for debate." This sentiment was shared by nearly everyone on the team as we sat in a circle, questioning why we had signed up for sleepless nights, endless arguments, and cramming our minds with topics ranging from Russian politics to South Asian environmental policy to U.S. military strategy. Amid the demands of our already overwhelming homework, we found ourselves reflecting on why we were still here.

Townsend Harris takes pride in its law and advocacy programs. As a humanities-focused school, we emphasize these areas strongly. However, our Public Forum Debate Team is relatively new, having been established just in September 2024. Within two weeks, we attracted a passionate and dedicated group of students, united by their love for Public Forum Debate. This style of debate centers on current events and policies, allowing us to engage with pressing issues. We compete at several prestigious institutions, including Harvard, Yale, and Princeton. These regional and high-profile national tournaments help us sharpen our skills and bring recognition to our school across the country.

Yet, the cost of attending these tournaments poses a significant challenge. We face expenses for hiring judges, chartering buses, booking hotel rooms, and paying tournament fees, all of which seem to rise each year. As a result, many talented and hardworking students are unable to participate. This financial barrier limits individual opportunities and holds back the growth of our team.

Why Methulia Debates:

"My debate journey began as a second grader, sitting at the breakfast table with my dad, listening to his talks about tech, politics, and world issues. I’d pitch in with my two cents, trying to sound informed, but as I grew older, I realized my ideas deserved a broader audience. I started researching today’s issues, uncovering flaws in solutions, and advocating for overlooked populations in developing regions. This work is personal to me as a child of immigrants from a third-world country, and debate has become my way to speak up for the communities that shaped me. Now, I can’t imagine life without it!"

Why Mirabelle Debates:

"Growing up in deep Harlem, I learned early on that I have to work hard for what I want. Battling loss and financial stress, Public Forum debate gave me a goal, something to strive for when all other structures in my life had disappeared. Debate showed my family of Cuban refugees that there was something to hope for and be proud of amid their struggle. I started our school's Public Forum Debate club because I wanted to give other students the same opportunity I had at my middle school: a chance to grow and learn despite all these obstacles."

Why Moises Debates:

"Since moving to the U.S., my family and I have faced financial challenges. My mom struggled to find stable, well-paying work, which inspired me to pursue a career I loved and that could support us—a lawyer. I joined the public forum debate team to strengthen my skills. Now, we need your support to attend competitions, where I’ll gain experience in a professional setting. Your help will bring me closer to achieving my dream and providing for my family."

Why Julia Debates:

"From a young age, I found myself debating my dad, often standing up for my mom, who had always been there for me. I felt a deep loyalty to her and wanted to support her in return. Through these moments, I discovered a genuine passion for debate—a powerful realization, especially as I’d struggled to find something I truly cared about, even among the things I excelled at."

Why Evan Debates:

"When I started debate in middle school, I never imagined I’d make it to the elimination rounds of the Harvard Speech & Debate Tournament. It took dedication and hard work. And now, here I am at Townsend Harris, with my fellow Harrisites, focused on doing it again… every opportunity we get! In a time when social media and politics push us further into our corners, Public Forum Debate forces us to see both sides of any issue. It has sharpened my critical thinking and broadened my perspective. I’ve connected with peers from all over the world and made lasting friendships."

We believe in our potential and the impact we can make, but we need your support to overcome these challenges and ensure every student has the chance to excel. Together, we can continue to elevate Townsend Harris High School in the debate world and inspire future generations of debaters.