2026 WIDL Soapbox Conference
Come experience the annual Soapbox Conference--a TED-like event covering inspiring and bold ideas. Speakers are selected from students in the Wasatch Independent Debate League (WIDL), with additions from our English program.
Topics vary widely, from important political events to mental health, social sciences to impactful stories.
This year, we have short poems that are insightful and comedic, open letters that are personal and profound, and speeches that are bold and comprehensive. All presentations are deep and impactful.
This event is free and open to the public.
Event Details
- Date: May 19th, 2026
- Time: 6:30pm - 8:30pm
- Cost: Free
- Open to the public
Location: Salt Lake City Library Auditorium
210 East 400 South
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
*Please note that this is a speakers conference. Some topics may not be suitable for children of very young ages. Additionally, small children and infants may find it hard to sit still and listen. Please make accommodations prior to the event.
Soapbox Presentations
We have a phenomenal set of poems and presentations for this year's Soapbox. Each piece is thoughtful, profound, and engaging. Presentations span topics from dealing with personal insecurities, finding common ground in today's political climate, being present in your own life, and so much more.
Speeches and poems are interwoven throughout the night, providing alternating moments of thoughtful beauty and deep exploration on topics. Below is the program--you don't want to miss it:
- We Speak Human (Speech): Katie Bell
- The Faces We Wear (Poem): Evelyn Boswell
- A Man With a Conviction (Speech): Melanie Smithson
- The Cost of Knowing (Poem): Anna Jones
- The War on Truth (Speech): Willfred Chugg
- Birthday Balloon (Poem): Abby Mock
- The Courage to Be Selfless in a Self-Centered World (Speech): Daphne Ferguson
- Intermission
- The Connection Between Moral Exclusion and Dehumanization (Speech): Jack Mangleson
- Gravity (Poem): Jordan Clark
- Living With Fear (Speech): Jordan Silveira
- The Butterfly Can Wait (Poem): Ivory Henage
- Unescapable (Poem): Illy Volonzinsky
- A Tapestry of Stars (Poem): Josh Skaggs
- More than a Moment (Speech): Malachi Nielson
We look forward to you joining us in a night of deep consideration of compelling ideas, insightful speeches, and beautiful poetry.