Essay Contest: Tell us in your own words why the First Amendment Matters

GSPA is now accepting entries for the 2023 First Amendment Essay Competition. As an essential part of our democracy, the press, and education, the First Amendment remains a crucial area of study and review. Students should write 300-500 words addressing the following prompt:

Explain in your own words how you interpret the First Amendment and the role it plays in American life. What is its importance on your campus and in your school newspaper, news website, newsmagazine, literary magazine, yearbook or broadcast? You may choose to cite judicial opinions, examples in the news and/or happenings in your school community to support your views.

Students must complete the contest entry form to be considered. The top three winners and their publications will receive monetary prizes.

For rules, visit ugagspa.org/first-amendment. The deadline for entries is Jan. 31, 2023, at 11:59 p.m.