DEBATING FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE ISSUES

Debates can be very controversial, but insightful at the same time. Every point has two sides, including injustices around the globe. Therefore, its crucial that you understand it and engage in debates! This article will go over all of the things that you need to know.

What is a debate?

A debate is defined as a “formal, oral confrontation between two individuals, teams, or groups who present arguments to support opposing sides of a question” (Britannica). Debating, its verb form, means “to argue about” according to Merriam-Webster dictionary. For example, think about the recent televised confrontations between the running presidents & vice presidents for the upcoming election on November 3rd. Those were debates! The candidates took to the stage to prove to the American people why their administration should be in office for the next 4 years. Obviously, this is a political debate. Knowing this, let's look at what debating for social justice means.

What does debating for social justice mean?

Debating for social justice means you are discussing controversial topics and injustices that people may have different sides on. This occurs by posing a two sided question to talk about. These talking points can be similar to political topics. For example, during the presidential debate President Donald Trump and Vice President Joe Biden touched on climate change, race, and health care. Other types of social justice issues that are commonly debated about are the following:

• Abortion

• Gay Marriage

• Equal Pay

• Gun control

• Immigration

• Defunding the police

Debates in the context of social injustices means you really need facts to support your opinion. To get the facts, it's about analyzing resources and evidence that can back up your claim. You’ll need some insight on your point of view if you are ever going to take part in a debate. Try using the statistics, stories, news, and pieces of literature that you can dig up to gain some knowledge and points to mention. An opinion becomes an argument once there are facts to prove your point.

The purpose & importance of debating for social justice

Some of the basic benefits of debating are the following:

• Teaches you how to construct convincing arguments

• Helps with public speaking

• Enhances analytical/critical thin skills

• Develop excellent communication skills

For social justice, debating is important because it encourages opposing viewpoints, educates on the facts, you share your stance on an issue, you learn about different problems, you get to understand why people may not agree with you, can earn a deeper understand of something, viewing both pros/cons

Everyone has different opinions and morals. The purpose of a debate is to present them and try to prove that they are correct. You deepen your understanding about your topic while “actively” listening to opposing views. The purpose is not agreeing with them all, but it's just a platform to share what you think.

Ways to get involved in debating

Here are a list of ways to get involved in debating:

1. Listen to debates

2. Find a topic you are willing to debate about, a passionate issue

3. Find the facts, self-education is key

4. Engage in debating platforms, whether online or clubs
   

5. ​If you can’t find the opportunity, create your own!

• Spark conversations! Start a club or small community with people you know!

Thank you for reading!

Sources/Links to check out:

https://www.americandebateleague.org/benefits-of-debate.html#/

https://www.americandebateleague.org/what-is-debate.html#/