[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 81 (Wednesday, May 14, 2025)]
[House]
[Pages H2010-H2011]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            WINNERS OF THE CONGRESSIONAL SPEECH COMPETITION

  (Mr. Alford of Missouri was recognized to address the House for 5 
minutes.)
  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.

[[Page H2011]]

       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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