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As we celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month, the Combat Antisemitism Movement proudly launches the "Voices of Heritage" writing contest.
This contest is designed to foster a deeper understanding of the Jewish influence on American culture and history, while combating antisemitism through education and storytelling. It provides a platform for individuals to explore and articulate the multifaceted experiences of Jewish Americans, from their pivotal roles in key historical events to their everyday contributions to the fabric of American society.
Contest Overview
Participants are invited to submit original essays, stories, or poems that capture the rich tapestry of Jewish life in America. We encourage entries that reflect on historical milestones, personal narratives, or profiles of influential Jewish Americans who have shaped the nation’s culture and values. This contest not only celebrates the past and present achievements of Jewish Americans but also aims to educate others about their enduring legacy and continuing impact.
Categories
Historical Insights - Delve into significant events in Jewish American history, such as the waves of immigration in the 19th and 20th centuries, the profound involvement of Jewish individuals in the Civil Rights movements, or their contributions during major American conflicts. This category seeks essays or narratives that bring to light these crucial moments and their implications for both the Jewish community and the United States at large.
Personal Stories - Share personal or family stories that illustrate themes of identity, heritage, and the pursuit of the American Dream within the Jewish community. Whether it’s tales of struggle, triumph, or the simplicity of daily life, these submissions should provide a window into the personal experiences and contributions of Jewish Americans.
Profiles of Influence - Write profiles or biographical essays on influential Jewish Americans across diverse fields such as science, entertainment, politics, and business. Highlight figures like Albert Einstein, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, or Steven Spielberg to showcase their significant impacts on American culture and society.
This contest invites writers to contribute to a growing dialogue that not only honors the past but also shapes the future of Jewish American narratives in a diverse and dynamic society. Join us in this important celebration of heritage, history, and humanity.
Prompts
- Profile a Jewish American who made an important contribution to American society.
- Who was Emma Lazarus and how did her work with Jewish immigrants redefine the Statue of Liberty?
- Celebrate a historic moment when Jews made a positive impact.
- Reflect on President John Adams’ description of Jews as “the most essential instrument for civilizing the nations” by spotlighting a noteworthy positive Jewish contribution to humanity.
Rules & Eligibility
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The Contest is open to all students from 5th grade through 12th grade.
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Enter by submitting an essay or a poem.
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Essays must be maximum 800 words.
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Limit of two entries per student – and the entry must be the student’s original work.
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The deadline to enter is May 20th at 11:59pm EST (winners will be announced on May 30th).
Prizes
First-place prize: $5,000; 10 runner-up prizes of $1,000 each; and 10 honorable mention prizes of $500 each.
The contest prizes are sponsored by the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM).
Contest Details
Submission Guidelines
- Open to students and individuals of all backgrounds
- Entries must be original and unpublished
- Limited to 1,000 words per submission
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Submission Deadline: June 15, 2024
Awards
- Prizes for each category: First prize of $3,000, second prize of $1,500, and up to ten runner-up prizes of $500 each.
- Winning entries will be prominently featured in a special publication on CAM’s digital platforms.