The NRA Civil Rights Defense Fund sponsors a scholarly writing contest for grades K-12. The theme for the essay is "What Does The Second Amendment Mean to You?" Essays will be judged in two categories: Senior (grades 9-12) and junior (grades 8 and below), with separate cash prizes awarded to the winners in each category. First place cash prizes are $1,000, $600 for second place, $200 for third place, and $100 for fourth place. The contest is open to all students enrolled, or who will be enrolled, in an elementary, junior high, or high school, including home-schooled students in an equivalent grade level, who have not previously received a prize in their category.
All essays should be about 1,000 words, neat, and legible (double spaced, typed preferred). Please note that the NRA Civil Rights Defense Fund historically receives a large number of entries and the contest is highly competitive. Include your name, age, address, telephone number, school, and grade as well as a statement from a teacher or parent certifying that the essay is your original work. Be sure to complete your entry form and submit it with your essay.