Chicago Debates

Chicago Debates advances the academic achievement, life success, and community contribution of Chicago youth through the transformative power of academic debate. For nearly 30 years, the organization has partnered with Chicago Public Schools to bring debate programs to students who have historically had limited access to rigorous academic enrichment. Through debate, students research important social and public issues, build evidence-based arguments, present their ideas clearly, listen to opposing viewpoints, and respond thoughtfully under pressure. These experiences strengthen reading, writing, critical thinking, public speaking, and self-confidence while helping students see themselves as capable scholars, leaders, and advocates.

Chicago Debates provides year-round programming for more than 1,400 middle and high school students across over 100 schools. The organization helps schools establish and sustain debate teams, trains and supports educators, provides curriculum and instructional resources, hosts student competitions, and offers summer and career-connected learning opportunities. Programs include several forms of debate designed for different ages, experience levels, interests, and language backgrounds, including Debate en Español. Together, these programs create supportive spaces where students learn to analyze complex questions, communicate across differences, persevere through challenges, and develop skills that prepare them for success in college, careers, and civic life.