Our Mission: Elevating LGBTQ+ Voices Through Oratory Excellence
Vision & Values
The Queer Oratory Institute envisions a world where LGBTQ+ individuals possess the rhetorical skills, confidence, and platforms necessary to shape public discourse. Our mission is to democratize access to elite oratory training, creating pathways for queer voices that have historically been marginalized or silenced.
We are guided by principles of intersectionality, authenticity, and excellence. Every program we design honors the full spectrum of LGBTQ+ identities while maintaining rigorous academic standards in rhetoric, argumentation, and public speaking.
Inclusivity
We celebrate the rich diversity within LGBTQ+ communities, ensuring our spaces are welcoming to all gender identities, sexual orientations, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Excellence
We uphold the highest standards in oratory training, drawing from classical rhetoric and contemporary communication theory to develop exceptional speakers.
Empowerment
We equip individuals with tools to advocate for themselves and their communities, transforming personal narratives into powerful public advocacy.
Meet Our Founder & Leadership Team
Dr. Sanaa Blake
Founder & Executive Director
Dr. Sanaa Blake is a powerhouse in public education equity and narrative change. Raised in Atlanta and deeply rooted in Southern Black feminist traditions, she holds both an EdD in Organizational Leadership and street cred from years spent mentoring youth and building civic coalitions. Her leadership is magnetic, unflinching, and deeply compassionate. She’s known for saying, “Power isn’t taken or given—it’s practiced.”
Our Advisory Council
QOI is guided by a distinguished advisory council of educators, activists, and communication professionals who bring expertise in debate coaching, nonprofit leadership, and LGBTQ+ advocacy.
- Prof. James Nguyen — Yale University, Debate Coach
- Aria Thompson — Former National Debate Champion
- Dr. Keisha Williams — DEI Consultant & Author
- Marcus Rivera — Tech Philanthropist & QOI Board Chair
Get Involved: Join Our Movement
The Queer Oratory Institute thrives because of our vibrant community of speakers, volunteers, partners, and supporters. Whether you're seeking to develop your own voice, mentor the next generation, or support our mission through philanthropy, there are many ways to engage with our work.
Every contribution—of time, expertise, or resources—amplifies LGBTQ+ voices and creates pathways for future leaders. Together, we're building a world where queer eloquence is celebrated, supported, and amplified.
Join the League
Become a member and access exclusive training, networking events, and our national debate community. Individual and student memberships available starting at $25/year.
Volunteer
Share your skills as a coach, judge, event coordinator, or communications volunteer. We welcome experienced speakers and those new to oratory alike.
Partner With Us
Organizations and institutions can partner with QOI to co-host events, sponsor programs, or integrate our curriculum into existing initiatives.
Become a Sponsor
Corporate and foundation sponsors make our work possible. Support ranges from program scholarships to major gifts that expand our reach and impact.
Our Comprehensive Programs & Initiatives
Beyond our signature offerings, the Queer Oratory Institute provides a diverse range of programs and initiatives designed to foster eloquence, advocacy, and community engagement within the LGBTQ+ community. Each program is meticulously crafted to empower individuals and advance our collective mission.
The QOI Oratory Lab
Develop eloquence, presence, and persuasive communication rooted in queer identity. Focuses on Voice & Identity, Queer Rhetoric, and Public Speaking Mastery, culminating in a “Legacy Speech” showcase.
The Debate & Advocacy Forum
Trains participants in argumentation, critical thinking, and inclusive debate methodologies. Covers Foundations of Argumentation and Debating for Justice, ending with a public debate showcase.
The Eloquence Fellowship
A six-month fellowship cultivating LGBTQ+ thought leaders. Integrates advanced speechcraft, media training, and mentorship with established orators, resulting in keynote addresses and public essays.
The Queer Civic Voices Project
Builds public discourse literacy and civic engagement through workshops, town hall facilitation training, and digital storytelling campaigns with local governments and nonprofits.
Specialized Tracks & Resources
Further deepen your skills or contribute to the broader movement through our focused initiatives and invaluable resources.
Educator & Coach Certification
Trains educators and organizers to inclusively teach QOI’s debate and oratory methods, emphasizing curriculum design and trauma-informed pedagogy.
QOI Speaker’s Bureau
Connects trained orators with speaking and media opportunities, maintaining speaker profiles and fostering partnerships for alumni visibility.
Digital Learning Hub
QOI’s online environment for curriculum materials, recorded lectures, and community forums, supporting hybrid delivery and alumni access.
Queer Oratory Festival
An annual celebration of queer oratory featuring live performances, debates, and panels, with awards for innovation, eloquence, and impact.
Archive of Queer Eloquence
A digital repository preserving LGBTQ+ oratory history, collecting speeches, transcripts, and oral histories, and supporting research fellowships.
Mentorship & Alumni Network
Facilitates cross-cohort relationships, leadership coaching, and ongoing professional development for QOI alumni, fostering a supportive community.
Research & Evaluation Unit
Measures QOI’s impact through data collection, program evaluation, and publication of insights on inclusive oratory practices for continuous improvement.
Register for Our Events
Ready to join our vibrant community? Register for upcoming workshops, signature programs, and community gatherings directly from this page. We've made the process simple so you can focus on building your voice and connecting with fellow advocates.
Workshops & Training
Enhance your public speaking and advocacy skills with our focused training sessions. From beginner basics to advanced rhetoric, find a workshop that fits your journey.
Signature Programs
Engage with our most impactful initiatives like The Oratory Lab or The Eloquence Fellowship. These programs offer deep dives into queer rhetoric and leadership development.
Community Gatherings
Connect with peers, mentors, and allies at our social events, networking mixers, and open mic nights. Build lasting relationships within the QOI family.
