Hi friends! In case you didn't know, I've been involved with the Boston Debate League for almost 8 years now, and as BDL celebrates its 20th anniversary, here is my story :)

I joined the Boston Debate League in 2018, less than 2 months after moving to the US from my home country, Venezuela. Starting at a new school was terrifying and I felt a bit isolated. One day, my teacher Mr. Trinidad (a true angel) encouraged me to join the debate team at my school, specifically the Spanish team. Let's just say that debate quickly became a safe space for me.

We had our own little family within the debate team. I made so many friends, and the way we supported each other at tournaments and outside of them was truly admirable. I couldn't believe that I was given the space to raise my voice and express my opinions on complex topics, that what I had to say actually mattered, and that I could achieve anything as long as I put my mind to it (winning a few medals and trophies along the way of course :p). I wish I could explain to you what I feel when I look back at the Valeria from that time. Here is a mini-documentary made by the Boston Globe (if you don't have a subscription, here is a short clip) where you can see a bit of my journey!

Being part of the Boston Debate League and being a debater opened so many doors and opportunities for me, which is why I believe that the work that we do is extremely important now more than ever. We teach debaters to own their voices, to raise their hand, to express their opinions, and to make space in rooms that everyday feel smaller. Help me reach my goal and give BDL 20 more years!