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When we hit sensitive topics in debate, we would start with history, facts, numbers, etc. Then we would use those to find the logical or emotional core for different sides of the argument. If you go for what people say, you just go round and round with sound bites. If you look at WHY people say something and why they feel a certain way, you can get a much more faceted discussion that tends to avoid the triggers because it’s gone deeper than the talking points. At the end of the day, humans want A. But they also need B. And those things are in conflict. It makes for a much more balanced discussion.
It also helps that debaters have to be able to defend both sides, so they’re automatically looking for why people support one side or the other. They’re not looking to be “right” but rather looking to understand and persuade from multiple angles.
I had a group last grading period who always wanted to talk politics and religion. If they were finished with their work, I would let them talk as long as they didn't get aggressive or hateful.
This is the kind of classroom that I encourage as well. As long as they are keeping the conversation respectful I let them talk as long as their work is done.
You are the history teacher. Share what has happened throughout history. This article is from 2020 but may be helpful: BEHAVIORS OF CIVIL DISCOURSE https://www.edutopia.org/article/taking-heat-out-politically-charged-classroom-discussions/
You just have to be careful. Kids take home everything that you say, and the last thing you want is parents angrily calling the principal because they think you're brainwashing their kids. You can present concepts and tell the kids about events but do your best to remain impartial.