Randolph-Macon College’s Franklin Debating Society will host the touring British parliamentary debaters on November 4 at 7:30 p.m. in Washington-Franklin Hall (104 College Avenue). This year’s topic is Be It Resolved that the 2nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution should be updated for the 21st Century.

This lively event, which encourages audience participation, is free and open to the public. A reception will follow the debate. Map and Directions

The Teams
The British team of Niamh Thompson and Daniele Scanio will debate the Randolph-Macon team of Emma Reilly ’22 (communication studies and political science major; gender, sexuality, and women’s studies minor) and Bridget Maas ’20 (economics and Spanish major). Reilly and Maas, dedicated members of the Franklin Debating Society, have extensive experience in parliamentary debate. 

Partnership
The British tour is a partnership between National Communication Association’s (NCA) Committee for International Discussion and Debate (CIDD) representing the U.S. side and English-Speaking Union (ESU) representing the British side. 

“RMC is delighted to once again be one of the stops for the British tour,” says Communication Studies and English Professor Ted Sheckels, who coaches the Franklin Debating Society. 

“The tour demonstrates the power of debate, discussion, and cultural exchange as ways of bridging communities,” notes Communication Studies Professor Ruth Beerman, who also coaches the Franklin Debating Society. “We’re excited to be a part of the nearly century-long British parliamentary tour; Randolph-Macon’s 20-year participation reflects our commitment to the liberal arts tradition of excellence.” 

Those interested in seeing the experiences of the British team so far can visit their blog. 

The Franklin Debating Society 
The Franklin Debating Society competes in the Collegiate Forensics Association circuit. Students compete in a variety of events, including debate and forensics. Debate includes both parliamentary debate and Lincoln-Douglas. Forensics events include informative speaking, persuasive speaking, after dinner (humorous) speaking, impromptu speaking, extemporaneous speaking, communication analysis, declamation, poetry interpretation, prose interpretation, single dramatic interpretation, and duo dramatic interpretation.