Good news 4: Prison debate team beats Harvard

Prestigious Bard College sponsors a program leading to a college degree for selected inmates at the Eastern New York Correctional Facility .   One feature of this program is that the Bard debate coach, David Register, also works with inmate-students on their own debate team.

In September, the Bard-Eastern team met the debate team from Harvard.  After an awe-inspiring performance from both teams, three of the world's most prestigious debate judges declared Bard-Eastern the winner over the Harvard team in a 2-1 decision. 

This win is naturally a source of pride and support for programs that provide education and opportunity as part a prisoner rehabilitation.   The Bard-Eastern debate team had to overcome extra hurdles in doing their research and preparation, given that it takes place within the confines of a maximum security prison with limited computer and printing time available.

They make up for this by dogged determination and tireless practice.  The Debate Union experience teaches them logical thinking skills as well as a robust civic education about self-governance -- topped off by enhanced self-confidence and pride of accomplishment.

Such rehabilitation programs based on education and opportunity should be part of any criminal justice reform.  Debate teams will not be the place for all inmates;  but the same principles can apply at all levels of ability and interest, whether the skill be plumbing, accounting, or logic and language.    Society, as well as individuals, will benefit.

Ralph