As all eyes focus on the Presidential Debates this fall Los Angeles high school debaters will be using the opportunity to differentiate those often-disappointing media contests with the transformative experience academic debate provides for thousands of students in Urban Debate Leagues across the country. I RESOLVE showcases the power of high school debate for a public audience while exploring some of the most pressing issues in our society through the perspective, voice and values of the next generation of leaders – high school debaters.

I RESOLVE’s unique format highlights the power of high school debate for a public audience. Debaters will apply the superior advocacy, rhetoric and critical thinking skills they’ve developed through debate in this new public debate series. This virtual series will feature local high school debaters offering informed commentary and solutions on the most pressing criminal justice issues in their community. They will engage with a panel of civic and community leaders charged with making the policy decisions debaters have researched in an evening designed to restore the public’s faith in the great American tradition of debate.