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The fourth biennial Speaking Proudly oratory competition will look ahead to the United States’ semiquincentennial, organizers of the Nov. 8 event announced this week. In their speeches the high school girls competing at the Minnesota State Capitol will consider the topic, “The Consent of the Governed” in America’s 250th year.

“It’s an important topic, one based on a foundational belief stated in the Declaration of Independence,” according to Sherie Wallace, a member of the competition’s steering committee. “The competitors must consider whether or not our government today functions with the consent of its citizens. If not, what should be done to return governance to the ideals of 1776?”

The top three speakers will receive cash prizes: $2,500 for first place; $2,000 for second place and $1,500 for third place.

A nonpartisan, nonprofit project of Metro Republican Women, Speaking Proudly is open to Minnesota girls in grades nine through 12 during the 2025-2026 academic year.

“We welcome competitors from all types of schools, including public, private, home, and alternative learning schools,” Wallace noted.

Applications will be accepted between Aug. 1 and Sept. 15. For more information, go to speakingproudly.org.