Expressions of Freedom

Student Competition

Help us celebrate the 250^th anniversary of American Independence by making history come alive, sparking a civics renaissance, and celebrating democracy!  The Virginia Department of Education has partnered with VA250 to engage students across the Commonwealth through the study of civics, history, and democracy to promote the principles of engaged and informed citizenship. Included in this effort is our Expressions of Freedom competition – an opportunity for students to share their ideas and perspectives through artwork, videos, audio recordings, or essays in response to the question: “What does Freedom mean to you?”

The competition is open to students in Grades 3 – 12. Winners will have the opportunity to have their work placed in a time capsule in the restored pedestal of the statue of George Washington located in historic Trafalgar Square, London, England. The statue serves as a reminder of the enduring friendship and shared ideals, principles, and sacrifices between America and England.

Applications are closed as of Friday, April 18, 2025. Thank you for your participation!

Competition Rules and Guidelines:

1. All entries must be submitted electronically using the Expressions of Freedom link by 11:59 p.m., Friday, April 18, 2025.
2. All entries must be original pieces of work – the use of Artificial Intelligence is prohibited – and adhere to the following:
   • Students may submit:
     • An essay up to:
       • 250 words – Grades 3 – 5
       • 500 words – Grades 6 – 8
       • 1,000 words – Grades 9 – 12
     • Video or Audio up to two minutes; or
     • Physical artwork must be submitted digitally through high-resolution photo.

3. Selected participants may be asked to provide the physical submission for display and featured in a commemorative booklet during the July 4th celebration along with other VA250 commemorative events and celebrations.
4. A few selected participants will have the opportunity to have their work placed in a time capsule in the restored pedestal of the iconic George Washington statue located in London, England during a ceremony planned for summer 2025.
5. Parental permission is required for all selected entries.

Competition Criteria:

CLARITY OF IDEA:

• How well does the entrant use both their personal and academic experiences to clearly address the question?
• Does the entry effectively convey ideas, emotion, or a story visually or with words by acknowledging the past or celebrating America’s achievements and possibilities for the future?
• Does the response offer fresh insight and innovative thinking?

STUDENT VOICE:

• Is there passion in the entry or a point-of-view that showcases a unique perspective on the diverse range of different experiences that make America unique in an original or authentic way?

PRESENTATION:

• What makes the submission content more compelling, fresh, or interesting than other entrants’ content in their grade level category?

2024 Competition

View the entries from the 2024 Expressions of Freedom essay competition that was distributed at the Independence Day event at the Virginia State Capitol.

Friends of Washington Statue