What We Believe

We Believe...

That debate has the power to transform the lives of young people. Debate equips students with skills that last a lifetime. At the Nashville Urban Debate League, we witness firsthand how debate fosters critical thinking, effective communication, and confidence. Debate challenges students to analyze complex issues, construct persuasive arguments, and consider diverse perspectives. These skills not only enhance academic performance but also prepare students for future success in college, careers, and civic life. By engaging in debate, students become informed and engaged citizens, ready to make a positive impact on their communities and the world. 

The research on debate's impact backs this up. Students who participate in policy debate, on average, have higher reading levels, grades, test scores, graduation rates, college going rates, and SAT scores. Debate is a powerful tool for learning! 

Our Mission

Using a nationally recognized model for empowering high school students through the art of debate, we will play a significant role in improving academic performance, high school graduation and college enrollment rates, and equipping students for college success. ​

Our Vision

Our vision is to ignite a passion for debate among urban public school students, with an emphasis on teamwork, academic excellence, critical thinking, and community engagement. We aim to empower students to become confident communicators and empathetic listeners who are advocates for themselves and their community, and will graduate from high school as engaged citizens with expanded opportunities for postsecondary education.