Center for Democracy in Deaf America

Committed to developing healthy democratic skills by fostering disagreement, debate and civic engagement through ASL and English.

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

The 'Most Improved Debater' award goes to Dalina Schwartz! As only a sophomore, she stepped up as team captain and embraced the challenge. Week by week, Dalina found her voice not just in rounds but in how she supported and guided her teammates. We're proud of her!

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

Aubrie Bauer, a standout Gallaudet debater, gave a powerful student commencement speech with a beautiful blend of logos, ethos, & pathos. She shared her debate journey, championing good arguments and criticism. Watch highlights and the full speech on Gallaudet’s YouTube channel!

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

At the 2024-25 debate team banquet, we gave out individual awards. To start off, the Sign as if I'm Right Award went to the debater who consistently demonstrates strong speaking skills and knows how to capture the audience. Congratulations, Trent Mora!

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

As the Gallaudet debate season ends, here's a video that summarizes our memories and accomplishments this year. Check it out at our YouTube channel!
https://t.co/9RI897eIS6

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

In early May, the debate team met to celebrate the debate program's yearly achievements. We appreciate everyone's hard work and support to make this season so memorable!

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

It’s been an exciting year for the Center for Democracy in Deaf America -- marked by two championship wins, impactful student programs, and growing civic engagement. Read the full article (link in bio) to explore the highlights and milestones.

https://t.co/4ZX83CLGPC

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

Today, two of our debaters walk the stage: Aubrie Bauer and Lorelei Becktel. The debate program is so proud of them and all they have accomplished. We will miss them but look forward to seeing what the future has in store for them!

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

A freshman from Franklin, Kentucky, majoring in Government, Bentley is deeply knowledgeable and endlessly curious. He's a walking encyclopedia—especially when it comes to the UK and the Catholic Church. We're fortunate to have him in the program!

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

Recently, Trent Mora competed in a policy debate at the Sierra Sustainability Summit at Yosemite, proposing a co-stewardship model for public lands with Indigenous communities. He won his 2nd consecutive championship & the 4th title in Gallaudet Debate history. Congrats, Trent!

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

A freshman from Buffalo, NY, majoring in Biology, Monika is observant, insightful, and passionate. She’s quick to grasp complex topics. We're thrilled to have her presence in the program and excited to see her grow!

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

She recently competed in her first debate tournament and won an individual speaker award and the novice championship trophy. We're thrilled to have her in the program!

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

A freshman from Washington, D.C., double majoring in Biology and Public Health, Hiruni is talented and driven. She’s not afraid to sign as if she's right and listen as if she's wrong.

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

We are thrilled to announce that Blessed Mbogo has been selected as a part of @allintovote's Student Voting Honor Roll! We are proud to have Blessed represent our @GallaudetU campus and lead our community in nonpartisan voter engagement. #AllInToVote #AllInAwards

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

People make all kinds of assumptions about debaters, including debaters themselves. Let’s see which ones we can really agree on.

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

Meet freshman Evan Stromberg from Vancouver, WA! A business major and football student-athlete, Evan brings a strategic mindset to the debate floor. He may be quiet, but he knows how to make his words count. We’re excited to watch him grow!

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

Thanks to everyone who attended the 3rd Annual Gallaudet Distinguished Debate between Dr. Jeremy Brunson and Lexi Hill about interpreter accommodations on the main feed. In front of a full house, Lexi changed the minds of 34% of attendees. Catch the debate on our YouTube channel!

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

Meet sophomore Dalina Schwartz from Faribault, MN, double majoring in Psychology and English. Now a debate team captain in her second season, her daily dedication and hard work stand out. We're excited for her upcoming achievements with her first tournament next month!

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

The Gallaudet Debate Team is honored to host the @Philodemic for a debate on whether the world would be better off without religion. Watch the video for more details. We hope to see you there!

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

The judges ruled in favor of the negative—congratulations to Trent and his team! Many thanks to the University of Vermont for hosting us.

[Center for Democracy in Deaf America @TheCDDA]

Earlier this month, debaters Lorelei Becktel and Trent Mora competed in the Janus Forum at the University of Vermont. Lorelei's team supported the European/German free speech model, while Trent's team argued for the U.S. First Amendment model.