On November 19th and 20th, students debated, discussed, and even joined protesters at the annual Midwest Fall State convention. Debates and thought talks were held in the Wisconsin State Capitol Building in Madison.  However, JSA was not the only group that wanted to use the Capitol for a political meeting. United Wisconsin sponsored a rally to recall Governor Scott Walker on Capitol Square.

The most unique thing about this Fall State convention was, indeed, the political backdrop in Madison. As JSAers debated various issues, a real political battle was brewing at the Capitol. Wisconsin citizens and union members, whom were not pleased with Governor Walker, were protesting by holding a Recall Walker Rally. Aiming to get the 500,000 necessary signatures to hold a recall election, protestors flooded the streets. Convention planners specifically set aside  free time so that students could go and talk to protestors, get a free sign, or just see what it was like. Many long-time JSAers mentioned that the rally made this Fall State the best one yet.

The primary goal of JSA is to develop the students of America into responsible, educated citizens. This is done primarily through intellectual debate and thoughtful discussions. Throughout nine serious blocks of debate, JSAers argued about everything from China to religion to the NCAA. Also included were night debates, aimed to give the students a chance to relax with some humorous topics, such as “Resolved, that the Harry Potter series promotes witchcraft among children.”

The convention was also highlighted by a record three keynote speakers, two of which were leaders of opposing political parties.  Mark F. Miller, the Democratic Minority Leader of the Wisconsin State Senate, and Glenn Grothman, the Republican Assistant Majority Leader of the Wisconsin State Senate, spoke for their support and opposition to collective bargaining rights of unions, respectfully. While Jeff Burkhart from the Madison Literacy Network spoke about education.

As the convention came to a close and best speaker awards were handed out, many expressed regret that Fall State was already over. Whether as a first-time JSAer or an experienced convention veteran, this is one Fall State that everyone will remember.