Freedom of Expression Contest: Environmental Justice and Me

The NYCLU is bringing back our Freedom of Expression contest. This contest is an opportunity for young people throughout the state to showcase their activism and advocacy through various art forms. Artistic expression is just one of the many ways we can increase public awareness about issues that affect our youth across New York State. Our theme this year is Environmental Justice and Me.

Young people from New York State high schools and colleges are invited to enter the contest by expressing how environmental injustice has impacted you. Submissions can include any form of original art, including a poem, song, painting, photograph, graphic design, short story, short film, or other forms of artistic expression.

DEADLINE EXTENDED: All entries must be submitted online by Friday, May 14, 2021.

Eligibility:

• Applicants must be 13 to 21 years old.
• Applicants must live in New York State.
• Current and former NYCLU/ACLU clients, staff and board members, and their relatives, are not eligible.

Guidelines for submission:

• All entries must be original.
• Group entries are accepted.
• Entries can be visual or audial.
  • Audio or video submissions must not exceed 2 minutes in length.
  • Accepted formats: PDF, JPEG, JPG, MP3, MP4.
  • Images and videos with participants under the age of 18 must complete a media release form. Media releases must be emailed to contest@nyclu.org before the deadline.
• Submissions will not be returned and may be used by the NYCLU on our social media or website.

Prizes

Prizes will be awarded to the top 3 winners in the following age categories:

• 13 – 17 years old
• 18 – 21 years old

1st Place: $100 gift card
2nd Place: $75 gift card
3rd Place: $25 gift card

How to Enter

1. Complete the Freedom of Expression submission form.

2. If the entry includes anyone under 18 years old, complete the media release.

3. Upload your entry and signed media release form to dropbox.

All entries must be submitted online by Friday, May 14, 2021.

If you have any questions, please email us at contest@nyclu.org.

Start your entry