The world of speech and debate is changing rapidly. One of the biggest problems we face today is the rise of aggressiveness in rounds and the overall toxicity that has seeped into our community. While I can mostly speak for Congress and debate events, speech events are not immune to this behavior.

Year after year, my debate teacher emphasizes this issue to new debaters, trying to warn them about the toxic environment that has been growing. Many students don’t realize they are contributing to it or that such a culture even exists. Let me be clear: this is not meant to attack anyone. But if you recognize that you might be part of the problem, you also have the power to stop. The mindset of “I don’t need to change for others” is exactly what allows toxicity to thrive.

When Aggressiveness Becomes Disrespect

Being “too aggressive” in a round is not the same as debating passionately or refuting arguments. It’s about disrespectful comments and behavior that crosses a line. I’ve heard stories of debaters screaming in opponents’ faces, hurling insults, and even slamming objects onto desks. This is unacceptable. Debate should never devolve into hostility. Not only does it make you look unprofessional, but it also reflects poorly on your team and your school. No one wants to be remembered as the person who screamed over a bill on daylight saving time.

Toxic Competition and Its Effects

Alongside aggressiveness, toxic competition has become a serious issue. Over the years, I’ve seen talented students quit their events because the pressure and hostility made the community unbearable. Competition itself isn’t the problem—it can be healthy and motivating. But when it turns into belittling, exclusion, or personal attacks, it drives people away.

As part of my research, I spoke with students from different events and backgrounds. One competitor told me they constantly stress about finding topics that are “unique” but still “relevant” because of harsh comments from others. Instead of presenting what they care about, they felt pressured to tailor their work to judges or peers. Another student recalled being laughed at during a personal story in their performance. And one debater explained how toxicity often begins long before the round itself: “The way we talk to one another becomes a place of judgment. Instead of hyping each other up, we look for what’s wrong.” That observation struck me because I’ve seen the same dynamic play out after tournaments: teammates picking apart the success of others instead of reflecting on their own performances.

Building a Healthier Community

The first step toward fixing this is acknowledging the problem. Recognize that you might, intentionally or not, be contributing to the toxicity. Remember that speech and debate is meant to be enjoyable. Competition is fine, but not when it turns into hostility. If you’re more experienced than someone else, don’t use that as an excuse to ridicule them. Share knowledge when asked, but don’t deliver cutting, passive-aggressive remarks. Everyone, whether they’re here to improve public speaking, fulfill a class requirement, or simply because they love it, deserves respect.

At the end of the day, we’re all waking up at 7 a.m. on a Saturday to attend local tournaments. Everyone is making an effort. The least we can do is be kind. You don’t need to announce that you’re the best debater in the room; let your arguments and professionalism speak for themselves.

A Final Reminder

Above all, treat people with respect. Hold teammates accountable if you notice toxic behavior, and don’t let casual cruelty slide. Speech and debate should bring together bright, talented students from across the state, the country, and even the world. Don’t allow that to be overshadowed by hostility.

Debate should challenge us, not break us down. If we want this activity to remain meaningful, we need to rebuild a culture of encouragement and respect, because in the end, kindness will always carry more weight than aggression.