Tuscaloosa, Alabama Sorority Hosts 3rd Annual Juneteenth Contest

Juneteenth commemorates the pivotal day of June 19, 1865, when enslaved African Americans in Texas were freed, marking their independence more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.

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The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated^® - Eta Xi Omega Chapter, located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, presents its 3rd Annual "The Voices of Freedom Juneteenth Contest.”

Eta Xi Omega Chapter

According to the press release, “This year, the excitement reaches new heights as participants continue to showcase their talent in a creative twist introduced last year – turning essays into dynamic 'reel' video formats.”

This prestigious contest aims to amplify the voices of middle and high school students within the Tuscaloosa City and Tuscaloosa County school systems. It is proudly presented in partnership with the Tuscaloosa Branch of the NAACP and Townsquare Media, including 92.9 WTUG, Praise 93.3, 105.1 The Block, and the Tuscaloosa Thread.

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“This competition aims to spark creativity, encourage critical thinking, and foster a deeper bond with the rich cultural heritage of our community. By taking part, students breathe life into the spirit of Juneteenth, paying tribute to the past, celebrating the present, and shaping a brighter future,” the press release stated.

Video Contest Information

This year, the contest will empower middle and high school students in West Alabama to create a “reel” or video to address the prompts below:

Explain the historical significance of Juneteenth.
How has Juneteenth personally impacted your life?
What can be learned from Juneteenth to help us shape a better America today?

Videos should be no longer than two (2) minutes in length and must be submitted by May 1, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.

Submit your video here: https://tinyurl.com/JuneteenthContest2025

Cash Prizes

$500 Cash Prize for High School Student

$150 Cash Prize for Middle School Student

Important Contest Notes

The contest is open to all currently enrolled middle and high school students in Tuscaloosa City or Tuscaloosa County.

Winners will be contacted by May 16 and must be available to attend the Tuscaloosa Chapter of the NAACP's Juneteenth Festival on June 14 to accept the prize.

For questions or further information, please contact: etaxiomega.uplift@gmail.com

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