District Court Announces New Law Day Youth Civics Contest

Press release from United States District Court:

March 18, 2021

The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois and the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association (FBA) have announced a new Law Day Youth Civics Contest.

“The Court welcomes opportunities to engage with young people in this District. This context is one such opportunity, and we hope it will inspire deeper understanding of and greater interest in our justice system,” said Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer.

Students enrolled in 6th- 12th grades are invited to submit a video recording which answers the question, “why are the courts important?” Videos may not exceed two minutes and must be the original work of the student/students.

The contest will run March 1, 2021 through March 31, 2021. Entries will be judged on how they demonstrate understanding of constitutional principles, clarity and effectiveness in expressing the theme, and originality/creativity.

A first ($500), second ($250), and third ($100) place winner will be awarded from each grade level cohort (6th-8th grade, 9th-12th grade). The teacher or organization leader (i.e. scout leader or club advisor) who referred winning students to the contest will receive a $50 Target gift card for classroom or club materials.

Winners will be announced the week of April 26, 2021.

Law Day is celebrated on May 1st each year and celebrates the role of law in our society and aims to foster greater understanding of the legal profession.

The Northern District of Illinois includes the following counties: Cook, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kendall, Lake, La Salle, Will, Boone, Carroll, DeKalb, Jo Daviess, Lee, McHenry, Ogle, Stephenson, Whiteside, Winnebago.

This press release was produced by United States District Court. The views expressed here are the author's own.