West Virginia high school seniors are invited to submit their entries for the 2021 Disability History Essay Contest.
According to the contest announcement, “This contest is designed to provide you with an opportunity to showcase your writing skills, share what you have learned about the Disability Rights Movement, use your ability to form and express opinions and perhaps earn some money to help you into your future! All West Virginia high school seniors are invited to submit an entry.”
Entries will be divided into six geographic districts across West Virginia. There will be one grand prize “State Winner,” as well as a first place and second place winner from each of the six districts. The “State Winner” will receive $3,250 for their essay, while the six first-place winners will each receive $1,750 and the second-place winners will receive $1,000.
Also stated in the contest announcement:
“All entries must include the completed entry form and must comply with all contest rules. Points will be deducted for any failure to follow the rules, including failure to use ‘people first language’. While federal law prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities, we still face barriers every day.”
The essay topic for the 2021 contest will be:
“The significance of section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 – Past and Present.”
To learn more about the contest, including a full list of contest rules, visit wvsilc.org/essaycontestapp.htm. Entries may also be submitted there, or by email to kathi.young@wvsilc.org. Those needing assistance with their submissions should call 855-855-9743.
All entries must be submitted no later than midnight on Monday, March 22.
The 2021 Disability History Essay Contest is a joint effort between the Statewide Independent Living Council, the State Rehabilitation Council and the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services, along with cooperation from the West Virginia Department of Education.
