“Not Just Yelling”: Why Your Support Matters — A Conversation with Two Student Debaters

When we talk about the power of speech and debate, we often focus on awards and trophies. But the deeper impact is harder to measure — until you sit down with students like Kyle Delgado and Vivian Grant from McClatchy High School. These two students recently represented Sacramento at the Urban Debate National Championships and left a lasting impression not just with their talent, but with their growth, insight, and commitment to meaningful debate.

Kyle’s and Vivian’s debate journeys began in middle school and high school, respectively, both drawn in by the promise of a platform to explore complex issues. “It was a way for me to express my concerns about the world and politics,” Vivian shared. Kyle agreed, adding, “I found it way more engaging than other extracurriculars. It stuck.”

They both gravitated toward policy debate, the most technical and research-intensive format in competitive speech. “Policy lets you actually apply data and analysis,” Kyle explained. “It’s not about who yells the loudest — it’s about who thinks the sharpest.” Vivian chimed in, laughing, “You can’t just posture your way to a win. You have to answer arguments. You have to engage.”

At the Urban Debate Nationals, Kyle and Vivian reached the quarterfinals — an extraordinary achievement. But what they valued most wasn’t a placement. It was the equity of the tournament and the quality of the debates.

“In most national tournaments, teams from private schools have dozens of coaches and endless resources,” Kyle said. “But at Urban Debate Nationals, everyone was on an even playing field. It came down to who prepared, who understood the material, and who really debated.”

Vivian added, “It felt like we could finally breathe and focus on learning, not just competing. We weren’t trying to keep up — we were genuinely engaging with people. Kyle made friends. I’m less friendly,” she joked, “but it was still meaningful.”

They spoke with pride about running arguments they had developed entirely on their own — no generic templates, no shortcuts. Kyle described spending a full week researching and writing a critique (known as a “K”) that he later delivered in a round he called “the best of my career.” Vivian lit up describing a round where she dismantled a complex feminist critique with poise and clarity, demonstrating not only knowledge but compassion and nuance.

What makes this story truly remarkable — and why it’s being shared with you — is what happened behind the scenes. These students didn’t just show up and get lucky. They studied for weeks. They wrote their own cases. They debated with heart. And they did it all thanks to a community of support that includes you.

Speech and debate isn’t just about public speaking. It’s about creating spaces where students like Kyle and Vivian can grow into thoughtful, empowered leaders. It’s about equity — ensuring that talent, not privilege, determines opportunity.

And that’s why your donations, your time, and your belief in this work matter so deeply. Every hour volunteered, every dollar given, and every kind word of encouragement helps make stories like Kyle and Vivian’s possible.

Thank you for standing with us. You’re not just supporting students. You’re helping them thrive.

With gratitude,