2026 SESSION

ENROLLED

HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 189

Commending the Richmond Forum Speech & Debate Initiative and the National Speech & Debate Association.

Agreed to by the House of Delegates, March 9, 2026

Agreed to by the Senate, March 11, 2026

WHEREAS, the Richmond Forum Speech & Debate Initiative, in partnership with the National Speech & Debate Association, is proud to host the 2026 National Speech & Debate Tournament in Richmond this June, welcoming more than 10,000 visitors to Virginia's capital; and

WHEREAS, the Richmond Forum Speech & Debate Initiative recognizes that the ability to clearly communicate and thoughtfully engage in civil discourse is fundamental to a functioning democracy and that competitive speech and debate programs empower Virginia students with critical thinking and leadership skills; and

WHEREAS, the Richmond Forum Speech & Debate Initiative's hosting of the National Speech & Debate Tournament highlights the significant growth and success of speech and debate programs across the Commonwealth, which has been fostered by the dedicated efforts of local educators and community partners; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend the Richmond Forum Speech & Debate Initiative and the National Speech & Debate Association for hosting the National Speech & Debate Association's 2026 National Speech & Debate Tournament; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to representatives of the Richmond Forum Speech & Debate Initiative and the National Speech & Debate Association as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration for their work in promoting civil discourse and academic excellence.