Harassment Policy

The Newman Invitational Speech and Debate Tournament is committed to promoting ethical and rational communication behavior as an important part of an activity that maintains a deep respect for freedom of expression. We recognize that the adversarial and competitive nature of academic speech and debate places students, educators, judges, and tournament administrators in the position of (a) having to weigh the merits of competing strategies and/or (b) evaluating a performance or speech that is outside of the scope of one’s own held beliefs or world experience and that it may have ethical implications. At the same time, we are committed to promoting respectful discourse, and encouraging the growth and development of all students. Behaviors that belittle, degrade, demean, or otherwise dehumanize others are not in the best interests of the activity. They interfere with the goals of education and personal growth.

All participants at the NIT should recognize the rights of others and communicate (both verbally and written) with respect for competitors, colleagues, tournament hosts, and audience members. Communication that engenders ill-will and disrespect for forensics ultimately reduces the utility of forensics for all participants. It should be avoided and is subject to sanction. Accordingly, all forms of harassment and discrimination, whether written or oral, based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by any applicable federal, state, or local law are prohibited, whether committed by participants, judges, coaches, or observers. Individuals who violate this policy will be subject to the full range of sanctions, up to and including removal from the tournament.