We will hold a role-playing debate set in the United States in early 1965, during the Selma Campaign. In a debate, you do not know ahead of time which side of the debate you will be asked to argue.
You must prepare to argue BOTH of these positions, as though you are a black person living in 1965:
Position #1) As a people, we should commit to nonviolence as we struggle for our rights within the U.S. Doing so will help lead to positive change.
Position #2) As a people, we should commit to the principle of self-defense. It would help lead to positive change.
Step 1: Submit Your Written Arguments (20 Points)
What to do:
Make sure you’ve submitted the notes up through Notes #16 before you start preparing for the Debate. Spend some time reviewing your notes, and the resources at the end of this document if your notes don’t feel like enough.
Think of who your 1965 characters are. It is fine (and logical) that you imagine a different character for each position. Think of how old your character is in 1965, and then use your notes to understand what that person had lived through and witnessed.
Compose at least six arguments for Position #1 and at least six arguments for Position #2. For each argument, remember that is it 1965, and you do not know anything that happens after 1965. Each argument must be at least two complete sentences. Sentence fragments will NOT be graded.
It may be helpful to include a brief description of who your character is, writing in the first person.
Example: I am a 19 year old woman, attending college or I am a 65 year old man from Alabama
Each argument must be at least two complete sentences. Sentence fragments will NOT be graded.
Submit your written arguments
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