Belonging and Inclusion Station (BIS) For the third year in a row, the Belonging and Inclusion Station (BIS) provided interpersonal support and safeguards against violations of the Harassment and Discrimination Policy. The intake process remained consistent, with Belonging and Inclusion Advocates conducting inquiries involving both the individuals raising concerns and those identified in the concerns, ultimately resolving matters through educational reflection and support. This year, the BIS handled a record 42 intakes. Most concerns originated from middle school sites and supplemental events. Encouragingly, disputes related to rules declined, suggesting improved community understanding of the BIS’s core mission: to foster thoughtful reflection on participant behavior and promote growth. Additionally, improper conduct of judges as well as inclusion issues (e.g., name mispronunciation and comments about dress) have both decreased since 2023. Despite the record volume of intakes, every case was resolved through educational dialogue—marking the second year in a row with zero appeals. Finally, improved coordination with tournament managers and enhancements to the intake system strengthened overall responsiveness and support.
Common Issues • Harassment, Discrimination, and Bullying – Racist, sexist, antisemitic, homophobic, and transphobic incidents, plus misgendering and intimidation. • Judge and Coach Misconduct – Dismissive or intimidating behavior. • Equity and Inclusion – Degrading language, dismissal of expressed concerns, and unequal treatment. • Procedural and Management Issues – Confusion around rules, mishandled incidents, and fairness concerns. Overall, the growth in BIS engagement reflects both increased trust in the resource and a deeper commitment across the community to fostering a peaceful environment. As we look ahead, continued education, proactive communication, and strong partnerships will be key to ensuring the BIS remains a supportive, accessible resource for all. (continued on next page)
Belonging and Inclusion Station Usage at the National Speech & Debate Tournament 2023 Phoenix
2024 Des Moines
2025 Des Moines
Intakes
40
38
42
Intakes Addressed with Educational Resolution
36
38
42
Common Issues
• Harassment / Inappropriate Behavior: ~40%
• Harassment / Inappropriate Behavior: ~37%
• Harassment / Disrespect (students, judges, coaches): ~38%
• Unprofessional Judge Conduct: ~30%
• Unprofessional Judge Conduct: ~29%
• Unprofessional Judge Conduct: ~26%
• Inclusion Issues: ~25%
• Inclusion Issues: ~24%
• Inclusion Issues: ~21%
• Health and Safety Risks: ~15%
• Procedural / Rule Conflicts: ~16%
• Procedural / Rule Conflicts: ~17%
• Procedural / Rule Conflicts: ~12%
• Health and Safety Risks: ~15%
• Health and Safety Risks: ~10%
• Tech / Logistics Issues: ~2%
• Tech / Logistics Issues: ~5%
• Tech / Logistics Issues: ~5%
ROSTRUM | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2025 |
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