By Samuel Gillis
In a riveting display of eloquence and argumentation, the Speaker’s Regional Youth Debating Competition witnessed an intense clash between the youth groups of St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church and Karasabai Secondary Department.
Today, the St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church youth group emerged triumphant against their opponents from Karasabai Secondary Department.
The debate centered on the moot, “Feminism promotes female superiority rather than equality.” Representing the proposing side, Karasabai Secondary Department youth group, argued that while feminism originally aimed for gender equality, modern manifestations often advocate for female superiority.
Shavina Albert, speaking on behalf of her team, referenced a study published in the New York Post, which indicated a prevalent belief among millennials and Gen Zs that modern feminism promotes female dominance.
Albert underscored her argument by highlighting social media posts that propagate the idea of women’s superiority over men.
On the opposing side, the St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church youth group vehemently contested the notion of feminism advocating for female superiority.
Represented by Kamara Winter, the team argued that feminism seeks to address the systemic inequalities faced by women worldwide and advocates for their rights to be on par with men.
Winter referenced Mary Wollstonecraft’s seminal work, “A Vindication of the Rights of Women,” published in 1798, as evidence of feminism’s historical commitment to gender equality.
Following a spirited exchange of arguments, the adjudicators declared the St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church youth group as the winners of the debate.
Sharan Domingo, a member of the victorious team, received the accolade for the best debater.
The competition, which featured 16 participating groups, serves as a qualifying round for the National Youth Parliament 2024.
Eight of the top-performing teams will advance to the national stage, where they will continue to engage in constructive discourse on pressing societal issues.
As the debate concluded, participants and spectators alike reflected on the power of dialogue and critical thinking in shaping perspectives and fostering understanding in society.
The Speaker’s Regional Youth Debating Competition stands as a testament to the importance of youth engagement in meaningful discourse and civic participation.