“The ability to express an idea is well-nigh as important as the idea itself.”
Booker T. Washington
Oratorical contest
Our Authors Study Club, Inc. proudly presents the 75th Annual Oratorical Contest, a tradition founded in 1950 by Vassie D. Wright. Each year, dedicated OASC volunteers mentor and support students on this journey, upholding a legacy of integrity, honor, and distinction. We are thrilled to have you join us as a contestant and look forward to witnessing your growth and excellence.
For over seven decades, this prestigious competition has provided students with the opportunity to:
- Master the art of public speaking—delivering eloquent, persuasive, and effective speeches.
- Celebrate and share African American history, ensuring its richness is known and honored.
- Deepen local knowledge of African American heritage, fostering cultural appreciation and awareness.
Mark your calendars—the final competition date will be announced soon. Until then, our team is here to help you prepare and refine your speech for an unforgettable performance.
Details and Schedule
PuRPose
- To demonstrate the art of speaking eloquently and effectively in public. This is not a dramatic presentation.
- To share African American history with the public.
- To enrich local knowledge of African-American history.
Key Dates and Deadlines
Participation Requirement: Contestants must attend at least two practice sessions. Exceptions may be made with prior approval from the contest committee.
- Date Forthcoming – Orientation: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
- Date Forthcoming – Kick-Off Event with Guest Speakers on Black History Theme (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM)
- Date Forthcoming – First Speech Review (Submit 1st draft to [email TBD] by 9:00 PM
- Date Forthcoming – Second Speech Review (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM); Individual time slots scheduled
- Date Forthcoming – First Practice Session (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM); Individual time slots scheduled
- Date Forthcoming – Second Practice Session (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM); Individual time slots scheduled
- Date Forthcoming – Oratorical Contest (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM); Planned as an in-person event (Details TBD)
- Date Forthcoming – Final Competition (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM) at NCNW Council House
Judging criteria
- Delivery (25 points) – Voice, diction, pronunciation, enunciation, gestures, emphasis
- Interpretation (25 points) – Content, subject adherence, theme, logic, and creativity.
- Platform Presence (25 points) – Poise, appeal, impression, attitude, and effect
- Projection (25 points) – Strength of voice and overall emphasis
Entry SUBMISSION
Required Information for Submission
To apply, please submit the following information via email:
Subject Line: Oratorical Contest Application
- Student Name
- Grade
- Address
- Home Phone
- Cell Phone
- Email Address
- Parent/Guardian Name(s)
- Parent/Guardian Email Address
- Parent/Guardian Contact Number
- Name of High School
1st Draft of Speech Due: TBD
Final Application Deadline: TBD
Final Competition Date: TBD (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM) (Check-in at 11:30 AM)
Submission Details:
Email your submission and a recent photo to: Oasc1945@gmail.com
Subject Line: "Oratorical Contest Application"
We look forward to your participation!
Contact:
Ms. Terri Lyons
Oratorical Contest Chair
(310) 259-7779
Speech Requirements
- Each contestant must prepare and deliver one original speech.
- Speech must align with national Black History Theme.
- Speech must be between 4 to 6 minutes in length.
- Contestants may include short excerpts (one paragraph max) from speeches by famous individuals, but the majority of the speech must be original.
- Memorization is required – no notes allowed.
- Costumes and props are not permitted.
- Contestants must submit an outline and draft by Date Forthcoming.
- Contestants exceeding 6 minutes or restarting more than twice cannot win a prize.
- Contestants must attend orientation and at least two workshops or practice sessions (exceptions must be approved in advance).