SPEAK Final Debate at CRCF

On November 22, the SPEAK: Debate in Prison program hosted its Fall 2024 final debate in the Chittenden Regional Corrections Facility (CRCF). After nine weeks of learning the fundamentals of debate, public speaking, and advocacy, participants debated the participant-selected topic whether to decriminalize substance use in Vermont. The CRCF debaters included both familiar faces and last-minute additions motivated by the testimony of their friends. SPEAK volunteers adapted to include all participants based on their comfort level. Everyone helped prepare arguments and those who desired to speak were given the podium! Participants left expressing their excitement for the next session, and we look forward to their return for our spring session!