AILA NY is a proud supporter of the American Immigration Council’s (AIC) annual Celebrate America Creative Writing Contest for fifth grade students across the United States.
The Chapter sponsors the local contest, which draws participation from fifth grade students from both private and public schools across New York State and within the Tri-State area. The contest inspires educators to bring U.S. Immigration history and lessons into their classrooms, and fifth graders are given the opportunity to explore America as a nation of immigrants. Fifth grade writers use the theme “Why I am Glad America is a Nation of Immigrants” or “What Does It Mean to be A Welcoming Nation?” to discuss their personal immigration experiences, learn about and share family histories, or write about the broader questions of the challenges facing immigrants in a new land.
The creative entries received each year range in form from traditional essays and short stories, to lyrics and poetry. Local winners are honored at AILA NY’s last chapter meeting of the year, and the top winner’s entry is also entered into the National Competition sponsored by the AIC. There, entries are reviewed by a distinguished panel. The National Competition winner and their parent(s)/guardian(s) are invited to attend the AIC’s American Heritage Awards, where s/he is honored and reads aloud the winning entry.
For additional information about this exciting contest, please visit AIC’s website. Please contact AILA NY’s New Members Division Co-Chairs with any questions regarding submissions.
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