Can my common app essay and supplement be about the same activity?

I wrote my common app essay about debate as an activity that advances my knowledge and curiosity, but I want to write a supplement about my experiences as a woman in the debate community. I know that your common app is not supposed to be about the same activity as your supplement, but if I’m taking an entirely different lens, will it still make me come off as one dimensional?

I don’t know whether it is a “no no”, it might not be ideal. You have two essays (opportunities) to present yourself in front of “strangers” who will assess you to see whether you will succeed in their community by being an active contributor. I guess if you think the two different perspectives from the same activity could achieve that, then by all means go for it.

JMHO but I would use the two essays as an opportunity to show more than debate. Change it up.

I think you will impress them by writing two different topics !