Saint Philip Black History Month Youth Oratorical Celebration
Encouraging Young Voices • Building Confidence • Honoring Our History
This church-based oratorical celebration is designed to uplift, inspire, and encourage our children and youth as they grow in confidence, communication, and self-expression. Our goal is not perfection, but progress—providing a supportive space where young people can develop and strengthen their public speaking skills while honoring Black history, faith, and
culture.
Age Divisions
Participants will be grouped by age to ensure a nurturing and fair experience for all:
• Children Division: Ages 5- 7
• Junior Division: Ages 8 - 12
• Senior Division: Ages 13–18
Age is determined as to the date of the event.
Category I: Poetry & Prose Expression
(2 minutes or less)
Purpose
This category allows participants to explore powerful written words that reflect Black
history, faith, culture, and lived experience, while building comfort and confidence
speaking before an audience.
Guidelines
• Participants may present a poem or prose selection
• Selections may be written by a Black author or center on Black history, faith, or
cultural pride
• Memorization is encouraged but not required
• Maximum presentation time: 2 minutes
• One selection per participant
• Focus should be on clear speaking, expression, and understanding of the message
What We’re Listening For
• Clear and confident voice
• Expressive delivery
• Connection to the material
• Preparation and effort
• Adherence to the time limit
Category II: Prepared Speech
(4–6 minutes)
Purpose
This category helps youth strengthen their ability to organize thoughts, speak with
confidence, and share meaningful messages rooted in Black history and leadership.
Guidelines
• Speech should be memorized
• Topics should reflect Black history, influential leaders, faith, justice, or cultural
impact
• The speech may be:
o A historical speech, or
o A researched speech prepared by the participant
• Minimum time: 4 minutes
• Maximum time: 6 minutes
• Notes or reading during the presentation are not permitted
What We’re Listening For
• Understanding of the topic
• Clear structure and flow
• Strong voice and presence
• Eye contact and engagement
• Confidence and preparation
• Respect for the time limit
Category III: Original Speech
(4–6 minutes)
Purpose
This category encourages participants to find and use their own voice by sharing original
thoughts, reflections, and vision for the future.
Guidelines
• Speech must be originally written by the participant
• Topics may include:
o Reflections on Black history or heritage
o Faith, leadership, and service
o Community impact and hopes for the future
• Speech should be memorized
• Minimum time: 4 minutes
• Maximum time: 6 minutes
• Notes or reading are not permitted
• Adult guidance is welcome, but the ideas and message must remain the student’s
own
What We’re Listening For
• Authenticity and originality
• Clear message and purpose
• Passion and confidence
• Organization and delivery
• Growth and effort
• Staying within the time limit
Recognition & Awards
As a way to celebrate preparation, courage, and excellence, cash prizes will be awarded
to the top presenters in each category and age division.
• Cash prizes will be awarded for:
o Poetry & Prose Expression
o Prepared Speech
o Original Speech
• Awards will be given separately for:
o Children Division (5-7)
o Junior Division (8 - 12)
o Senior Division (13–18)
While prizes will be awarded, the heart of this celebration is to encourage growth,
confidence, and the continued development of public speaking skills in a faith-centered
and supportive environment.
All participants will be recognized and affirmed for their effort, courage, and willingness to
share their voice.
General Guidelines for All Participants
• Each participant may enter one category only
• Attire should be church-appropriate
• No props or audio/visual aids are permitted
• Respectful behavior is expected at all times
• Judges’ feedback is intended to be encouraging and constructive