On February 24, 2013, the American Legion of California hosted the 76th annual Oratorical Contest in Pacifica. The contest promotes awareness of the United States Constitution and obligations of citizens to our government among high school students. At state finals, the audience witnessed an incredible display of young talent as students presented powerful orations on different aspects of the Constitution.
The six students who competed had previously won their area competitions. After delivering an 8 to 10-minute speech about the Constitution, each student spoke on a topic randomly selected by the audience. The chosen topic was the right to bear arms, a controversial issue nationwide due to the recent Sandy Hook Shooting. Contestants from all over the state had different perspectives, but they all shared a common passion, public speaking. The 76th California state championship along with a $1,200 scholarship was awarded to Kate Park, a junior at Menlo School. Park’s eloquent and powerful presentation stood out. Park’s presentation skills were shaped by her experience in leading her school’s varsity mock trial team. The speech itself was well founded with logical arguments and persuasive evidence resulting from extensive research. Park’s speech titled “The People’s Voice” inspired the audience. One judge commented that she was touched by the powerful message to speak up. Park commented, “The experience was challenging but rewarding. It’s wonderful that American Legion hosts this event for high school students.” Park will represent California at the National Finals on April 19 in Indianapolis, where the top three winners receive over $14,000 in scholarships. We wish her the best of luck.
