Public Speaking is the #1 fear in America, even more than death. Yet, the skill is important for effective communication, critical thinking, and a plethora of career paths.

Forensics helps students overcome that fear through education and practice, allowing them to speak confidently and comfortably from classrooms to boardrooms. Equality in Forensics staff and alumni have gone on to speak with congressmen, governors, and the United Nations.

Since its founding in ancient Greece, forensics has always been about public advocacy through the use of evidence. This evidence-based analysis is one of the best ways to combat misinformation, a skill increasingly important in today's polarized environment.

Forensics requires students research and develop compelling speeches through the use of credible sources and causal logic, which has helped Equality in Forensics staff author studies for the United Nations and other international organizations.

Even as youth participation in politics is rising, young Americans are still less likely to vote and be civically engaged than any other age demographic.

By requiring students to debate both sides of a topic, forensics provides the perfect outlet to educate American youth about current events and politics in an unbiased manner. Using this skillset, Equality in Forensics staff have interned for members of congress, served on Congressional youth cabinets, and led anti-polarization efforts.

Numerous academic studies point towards participation in forensics increasing students' analytical skills, reading test scores, and overall academic performance.

As a competitive extracurricular activity, successful students are also more likely to get accepted into top colleges. Past Equality in Forensics staff members have gone on to attend the nation's leading universities, including Harvard, Yale, Princeton, UPenn, Columbia, Stanford, and more.