UVA’s Center for Community Partnerships and Digital Technology for Democracy Lab are sponsoring a writing contest for middle and high school students in Charlottesville and Albemarle County.
The second annual “Voices of Democracy” is built around the theme “Democracy in a Digital World,” with contestants asked to respond to the question:
“How has technology helped or hurt democracy in your community, and what should be done in the future?”
Through Sept. 26, students may submit original poetry or prose reflecting on the role of technology in democracy for a chance to win a $500 first-place prize.
More information and the submission link are available here.
“We’re thrilled about the second year of the ‘Voices of Democracy’ contest and love the way that it builds on the creativity and insight students shared last fall,” said Dr. Ben Allen, executive director of the Center for Community Partnerships. “This competition invites our local youth to think critically about the role of technology in their everyday lives and how it shapes their communities. At the Center for Community Partnerships, and across the university, we believe that all youth voices matter, and this is just one way we’re making sure that they are heard.”
“Last year’s winning submissions were powerful reminders of how deeply young people are thinking about democracy, and how their perspectives can challenge and inspire all of us,” said Laurent Dubois, John L. Nau III Bicentennial Professor and Academic Director of the Karsh Institute of Democracy. “The Digital Technology for Democracy Lab is thrilled to be a partner this year, and I’m excited to see how students will reflect on the digital landscape, especially as they imagine the future for themselves and their peers. Their words have real power to shape conversation and action.”
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Chris Graham
