Debate is rooted in the intellectual tradition of many cultures, from the famous orators of Greek and Roman history to village councils and religious gatherings worldwide. It’s integration into educational praxis in the United States was driven by the British debating societies of Oxford and Cambridge, which also put down roots in other parts of the British Empire. 

This past weekend, we were able to make some exciting international connections with another part of the English speaking and debating world, as WUDL students from 6 schools debated against their peers from the Cranbrook School in Australia.

 Led by Director of Debate Benjamin Smith, the Cranbrook School is one of the most accomplished debate programs “down under.” In preparation for an upcoming US World Tour,  we held what we hope will be the first of several scrimmages between Australia and the United States to build some international camaraderie and exchange debating techniques. 

• Participating from the United States: 
• Miles and Nabil : 7th graders from School Without Walls Francis Stevens
• Ayaan and Mark: 8th graders from Montgomery Village
• Madison (A) and Marshall: 8th / 7th graders at Stuart Hobson 
• Victoria and Jack: 9th graders from Duke Ellington / BASIS DC
• Margaret and Saron: 9th graders from BASIS DC
• Ajibola and Tosin: 11th and 9th graders from Roosevelt
• Marie-Celeste and Zahra: 10th and 11th graders from School Without Walls