GW Debate & Literary Society

The George Washington University Debate & Literary Society was founded on March 6, 1822, to assist our members in "improving ourselves in knowledge, eloquence and every accomplishment by which we may be the better prepared for any station in life." Almost 200 years later our society carries on this proud tradition as a co-curricular research and communications organization emphasizing debate, dialogue and deliberation as tools of engagement, service, and learning, and aspiring to provide our members a chance to meet and work with other exceptional students on fun, enriching and unforgettable "out of classroom" experiences. 

In addition to organizing and participating in public dialogue, deliberation, and debate events with local, national and international partners, our members develop their communication and argument skills by competing in research-based, intercollegiate civic debate tournaments organized by the Civic Debate Conference. In recent years our members have won both the Transatlantic Dialogues Championship, the European Union's Schuman Challenge, and the Morehouse College Social Justice Debates National Championship, and placed as top speakers and top teams at numerous other civic debate competitions. In turn, our society emphasizes applying the research and communication skills our members develop at these events towards our public service mission of promoting productive public dialogue. 

As a co-curricular academic society, our members experience the fun of speech and debate, as well as the personal satisfaction that comes from contributing their skills to our society’s public service mission, while enjoying opportunities to earn both scholarships and academic credit. Most or all travel costs for our programs are covered. If you are interested in joining, please fill out the Google Form below.