Are you a middle or high schooler from the Midwest with an interest in U.S. history (and specifically the First Amendment)? If so, you may be eligible for the First Amendment Freedoms Art & Essay Contest! Each year, the contest awards $5,000 and $1,000 each, respectively, to the first- and second-place applicants who submit the best essay OR original piece of art that relates to the First Amendment. Applicants must be residing in one of a number of eligible Midwestern states to be considered, including Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and Wisconsin. As the specific prompt may change every year, we recommend that interested applicants check out the official webpage for the scholarship on the ADL Midwest website before applying. If this sounds like a good opportunity for you, we encourage you to apply. Don’t miss out on this chance to showcase your talents and win big!

About Anti-Defamation League (ADL) Midwest

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) is the leading anti-hate organization in the world. Founded in 1913, its timeless mission is “to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment to all.” Today, ADL continues to fight all forms of antisemitism and bias, using innovation and partnerships to drive impact. A global leader in combating antisemitism, countering extremism and battling bigotry wherever and whenever it happens, ADL works to protect democracy and ensure a just and inclusive society for all.

• Grade Level: High School Students

• State Residency: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin

• Academic Interest: American Studies, Visual & Performing Arts, Photography/Photojournalism, History