The American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest provides students with the opportunity to develop and demonstrate their understanding of the U.S. Constitution. This program encourages thoughtful public speaking on the duties and obligations of citizens while rewarding students for their scholarship and communication skills. Eligible participants compete through multiple levels, culminating in the national contest. The competition follows detailed guidelines to ensure fairness and uphold the educational purpose of the event.
Scholarship Details
- Competitive oratorical contest focused on the U.S. Constitution
- Open to junior high and high school students under age 20
- Participants compete at local, department, and national levels
- The same prepared oration is used for all levels of competition
- Contest includes both a prepared oration and an assigned topic discourse
- Finalists receive scholarship awards; national finalists may not compete again
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- Must be under age 20 on the date of the national contest
- Must be enrolled in a high school or junior high school with coursework at a high school level
- Must be domiciled within or attending a school in the department where entering competition
- Early graduates may compete if not enrolled in a postsecondary institution at the time of department finals
Application Process
- Prepare an original oration on an aspect of the U.S. Constitution emphasizing citizens’ duties and obligations
- Ensure all quotations over ten words include proper written and oral attribution
- Participate in local and department-level contests using the same prepared oration
- Deliver the prepared oration within the required eight to ten minute time limit
- Prepare to speak on an assigned topic for three to five minutes, revealed shortly before presentation
- Follow contest rules regarding notes, electronic devices, props, and waiting room procedures
- Advance through competition levels for the opportunity to earn scholarship awards
Contestants and audience members may not use any form of electronic/digital data gathering, receiving and/or transmitting equipment. Contestants must deliver their prepared oration in no fewer than eight minutes and no more than 10 minutes. The assigned topic runs no fewer than three minutes and no more than five minutes.
