The New York Civil Liberties Union today announced the winners of its annual Freedom of Expression Contest, which invites young people in New York City to voice their opinion on important civil rights and civil liberties issues of the day. The annual competition asks young people to address a civil rights or civil liberties topic relevant to their lives. This year's contest theme was inspired by the civil rights movement and the current fight for racial justice and equality for all. Participants were asked to respond to the prompt, “Justice in my community looks like ... ,” by creatively portraying the rights that are most important to them and how those rights impact them on a personal level. Entries covered a wide range of issues including discriminatory policing, LGBT rights, reproductive freedom and immigration. “The Freedom of Expression Contest is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the talent and passion for social justice that thrives in today's youth,” said NYCLU Executive Director Donna Lieberman. “Each winner approached today's civil rights issues with creativity and originality. We are proud to amplify the voices of the next generation of advocates and community leaders.” Awardees are invited to attend the NYCLU's annual Broadway Stands Up for Freedom benefit concert on Monday, July 20 at the Skirball Center for the Performing Arts at New York University. Dozens of Broadway's finest performers, including 2015 Tony Award-winners Jeanine Tesori (Fun Home), Michael Cerveris (Fun Home) and Ruthie Ann Miles (The King and I), will take the stage to support the NYCLU's youth programs. Selected winning entries will be highlighted at the show. This year more than 200 young people submitted entries to the Freedom of Expression Contest. The submissions were judged in two categories: Creative Writing and Visual Arts. The contest was open to New York City youth between 10 and 21-years-old. First, second and third place winners and two honorable mentions were selected in both categories. Cash prizes totaling $1,000 were distributed among the winners. WINNERS