On November 20th, the spotlight was on the Europaschule Bornheim as it hosted a gripping English-language panel discussion featuring two former U.S. Congress members: Brenda Lawrence (Democrat) and Bob Goodlatte (Republican). Students from two bilingual 10th-grade classes at our school were front and center, joining forces with their peers from the Bornheim school to explore the pressing issues stemming from the recent U.S. elections.
The event wasn’t just another classroom exercise—it was a vibrant demonstration of democracy in action. The established cooperation between both certified European Schools Anno and Bornheim offer our students a unique opportunity to engage directly with seasoned policymakers.
The debate touched on some of the most contentious issues in U.S. politics. Here’s a glimpse into the thought-provoking questions posed by students and the lively discussions that followed:
Can an accused individual run for president?
Lawrence firmly believed that a criminal record should disqualify candidates, arguing for integrity in leadership. Goodlatte countered, highlighting that voters knowingly supported Donald Trump despite accusations against him. “The people have voted,” he remarked, concluding that Trump hence deserves a “fresh start”.
What is your perspective on abortion laws?
Lawrence took a resolute “pro-choice” stance, advocating for women’s rights to decide their futures. Goodlatte, while not dismissing individual rights, suggested that the issue’s complexity necessitates leaving decisions to individual states, reflecting the diversity of America.
Has gender influenced the elections?
Lawrence pointed out the historical disadvantages faced by female candidates, calling for greater equity in the political arena. Goodlatte, on the other hand, attributed election outcomes to pressing political issues like inflation and immigration rather than the candidates’ gender, suggesting President Joe Biden would have lost by an even larger margin against Donald Trump.
What about gun violence?
In one of the most heated exchanges, Lawrence highlighted the stark reality that owning a gun in the U.S. is easier than obtaining a driver’s license. She advocated for stricter laws, including “red flag” regulations, to reduce firearm-related violence. Goodlatte defended the constitutional right to bear arms but agreed that the current system of background checks is flawed and must be better enforced.
A shared commitment to dialogue
Despite their contrasting perspectives, both politicians shared a vital message: the importance of dialogue. “Sitting at a table and talking with one another is essential,” they agreed—a sentiment that resonated with students and teachers alike.
Lawrence, however, urged the audience to move beyond conversation. “Talking is not enough—we must take action and make bills,” she concluded, leaving students with a powerful reminder of their potential to shape the future.
An unforgettable learning experience
For our students, the panel was more than just a chance to practice English—it was an eye-opening exploration of how democracy works, the complexities of policymaking, and the value of active citizenship.
This event showcased the power of collaboration between schools and the importance of providing young people with platforms to engage critically with global issues. As the debate wrapped up, one thing was clear: the future of democracy is in passionate, thoughtful hands.
