The LAMDL, a non-profit organization, is devoted to bringing debate to urban high schools in the Los Angeles area.

The LAMDL is part of a “public-private” partnership, relying on financial contributions from private sources and collaboration with the Los Angeles Unified School District (“LAUSD”).

Hundreds of thousands of students have participated in urban debate in the last 25 years, and the empirical evidence is overwhelming: Participation in the program improves literacy and academic success; boosts high school graduation and college attendance rates; sharpens critical thinking, research and advocacy skills; bolsters self-confidence and strong work habits; and reduces negative behaviors.

In short, urban debate empowers these students with the crucial skills needed for active participation in a democratic society.

Originally known as the Los Angeles Urban Debate League (LAUDL), the program started small, with public schools primarily in local districts 6 and 7.