High school girls from around the state spent their Saturday at the Minnesota Capitol bringing history and civic responsibility to life through a speech competition centered on the theme, “The Consent of the Governed in America’s 250th Year.”
Speaking Proudly, a nonpartisan oratory competition sponsored by Metro Republican Women, tasked interested high school girls with writing an original persuasive speech on whether or not our government today functions with the consent of its citizenry and what can and should be done to ensure that the grand ideals of 1776 prevail.
A selection committee used a blind application process to identify the most impressive speech descriptions and then invited those applicants to compete at the Capitol.
Speeches were to be no more than eight minutes in length, and competitors were given guidelines to follow, such as giving the speech a clear structure and adroitly weaving sources of evidence to support their topic into the text of the speech.
Competitors gave their speeches three times before different panels of judges (I had the great honor of serving on one!) before the top three highest ranking speakers advanced to a final round, where they delivered their speeches in the Capitol Rotunda.
Winners received monetary recognition and trophies but were also recognized for their courage to share their perspective on what is needed to ensure the principles of a democratic republic remain as vital today as they were 250 years ago. Through historical references, personal anecdotes, and calls to civic engagement, each participant highlighted the ongoing responsibility of Americans to actively shape our government. The speeches not only showcased a command of language and persuasive skill but an ability to connect America’s founding ideals to the challenges and opportunities of today.
I, as I am sure many others did, left the event feeling profoundly hopeful for the nation’s future. Through the confident voices of these young women, I was encouraged that this next generation includes informed, engaged, and courageous young people. If this competition was any indication, America’s next 250 years can be shaped by leaders who speak not only with intelligence, but with empathy, purpose, and conviction. I hope this cohort of young orators will be part of that leadership!
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The $2,500 first place prize went to Adelaide Dixon, a student at Liberty Classical Academy, for her speech, “Consent With Purpose.” The second place prize, $2,000, went to Eleanor Kraft who attends Mother Seton Homeschool for her speech on “Gerrymandering.” Finally, Christine Gao who is a student at Zion Homeschool received the third place prize of $1,500 for her speech, “The Nature of the Governed.”
Thank you, Speaking Proudly, for giving Minnesota high school girls a space to find their voices and develop as future leaders who will help shape our state and our nation.
