Winners of the Congressional Speech Competition

Floor Speech

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Mr. ALFORD. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to announce our winners today for our second annual Missouri's Fourth Congressional District speech competition for 2025. This is something we started last year here in this very Chamber, and I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to maybe adopt this in their district to try to re-instill patriotism into our great Nation.

Our prompt this year is: What does it mean to stand for freedom here at home and abroad?

Our first winner is Taylor Olendorff who is in the 11th grade at Glasgow High School.

Taylor wrote this:

Standing for freedom means advocating for the inherent rights of individuals to live without oppression, pursue their dreams, and express themselves without fear.

In America, freedom is foundational, symbolized by democratic values like free speech, equality, and the pursuit of happiness.

At home, this means protecting civil liberties and ensuring justice for all, regardless of race, gender or background.

Abroad, America plays a critical role in promoting freedom by supporting democratic movements, opposing tyranny, and providing humanitarian aid.

The U.S. has historically used its influence to encourage the spread of human rights and liberty worldwide, embodying the belief that freedom is a universal right, not just an American ideal.

Our next winner is Grey Landreth, who is in the 11th grade at Waynesville High School.

Grey wrote:

A tall, stone lighthouse standing firm against turbulent waters, giving a path for sailors even in the most treacherous of storms, always steadfast.

This is what it means to stand for freedom, to be resolute in one's principles in the face of adversity.

America is the lighthouse of freedom and democracy is the unforgiving sea of the world.

Illuminating the path to the patriotic way of life for which the previous people of this country fought so hard.

Not only is it important for the lighthouse to point the way for smaller vessels on the water, but also to maintain its light, to maintain its freedom.

Before America can radio the path for other countries, it must first prioritize its own freedoms and make sure its lightbulb never flickers.

Our next winner is Lauryn Lercher, who is also an 11th grader at Waynesville High School.

Lauryn wrote:

Freedom isn't just a word; it is a responsibility. To stand for freedom means defending the rights of others, even when it is difficult.

At home, America strives to protect democracy, ensuring every voice is heard.

But freedom isn't just for us, it is a global value. The U.S. promotes human rights and stands against oppression worldwide through diplomacy, aid, and example.

However, authentic leadership means acknowledging our flaws and working to improve.

Standing for freedom isn't about power, it is about justice, equality, and courage.

If we truly believe in freedom, we must defend it everywhere, for everyone.

Because without freedom, we lose what makes us who we are.

I am extremely proud of these young people. They are talented, smart, and patriotic Americans who want our country to be better. Let us all strive in this body no matter what side of the aisle we are on to make that happen.

Mr. Speaker, I will continue at a later date with our remaining winners.

Again, I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to adopt the congressional speech contest to build patriotism among our young people in the United States of America.

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