Nevaeh Rita Sencion and Saidah Ervin of Baltimore City College have made history as the first African American women’s team to win the National Catholic Forensic League’s policy debate tournament in Chicago.
Their remarkable victory not only shattered glass ceilings but also paved the way for a more diverse and inclusive future in the world of competitive debate.
“They announced second place first, and we heard the other team. We were both just like in shock,” said Ervin. “Like we knew we had it in us, but like being able to hear in front of a room that big and hearing all the cheers for us is a really, really big feeling.”
Overcoming Obstacles with Unwavering Determination
Facing some of the most esteemed speech and debate teams in the nation, Sencion and Ervin stood their ground, participating in five debates over two days, each spanning two hours. Through hard work and perseverance, they knocked out the top-ranked high school policy debate team in the country by a single vote.
The topic they tackled was complex and multifaceted: “United States federal government should substantially increase fiscal redistribution by providing a federal jobs guarantee, increasing social security, and/or providing a basic income.”
Despite feeling exhausted and scared at times, the duo leaned on each other, drawing strength from their unwavering belief in their abilities.
Inspiring Future Generations of Debaters
As they prepare to graduate high school, Sencion and Ervin are excited to serve as role models for the new generation of girls who share their passion for debate.
Their victory not only celebrates their personal achievement but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring young debaters, particularly those from underrepresented communities.
“We have the very unique responsibility – and almost indebtedness – to other Black debaters, other Black programs, the legacy of Black debate that’s come before us that has opened the doors for us to be able to continue to advocate for ourselves, for our communities,” Sencion said.
A Legacy of Excellence and Opportunity
Patrick Daniels, the director of speech and debate at City College, has led BCC’s Speech and Debate Society for over 20 years. He emphasizes the significance of this win, not only for Baltimore schools but also for the entire debate community, as it offers a vision of change and inclusivity.
“It’s an amazing accomplishment,” said Daniels. “Not only for the city of Baltimore but for the debate community to offer change and have a vision for the future beyond the traditional vision of debate being an all-white, all-male activity.”
After graduation, Sencion and Ervin plan to continue their debate careers in college, with Sencion attending Wake Forest University on a full debate scholarship and Ervin heading to the University of Kentucky as a leadership scholar.
Ultimately, they aim to return to their roots as coaches and judges for BCC’s Speech and Debate Society, ensuring that the legacy of excellence and opportunity continues for generations to come.
