2020 IAC Youth Essay Contest - Enter and Win! 

This years essay contest is a little different from the past!

For the safety of all that would attend the 2020 Annual Conference we decided to hold it completely virtual this year! We also decided to shake it up a little and base this year's essay on a the NETFLIX film "Kiss the Ground."

Kiss the ground is a film where Science experts and celebrity activists unpack the ways in which the earth's soil may be the key to combating climate change and preserving the planet. This film is narrated by Woody Harrelson, this doc features interviews with Gisele Bündchen, Tom Brady and Patricia Arquette.

The essay Question is below:

Kiss the Ground reminds the world of a story that Indigenous people have long known: we must take care of our mother earth if we want her to take care of us. After watching Kiss the Ground, share the three most prominent take-aways. In what ways can you contribute to a more regenerative food and ag system in your community? What traditional or cultural land stewardship practices align with our transition back to regenerative ag and food production practices? What ways can you get involved in your own community as a young leader promoting a regenerative future? What resources can the IAC offer to support your effort?

Three finalists will receive cash and prizes. FInalists will be chosen by a 

If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to the Leadership Development Specialist, Azelya Yazzie at azelya@indianag.org or the Natural Resources Program Assistant, ShaTeal Pearman at shateal@indianag.org.
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Essay Requirements:
When uploading your 2020 IAC Essay Contest Submission, it is REQUIRED that your .pdf essay file upload DOES NOT include your name or your e-mail anywhere in the file upload name or document itself. If your name should appear somewhere in the file upload we will have to reject your submission to prevent bias in the review process.

TO BE CLEAR: DO NOT include your name in the essay header, DO NOT include a name OR an introductory paragraph in your essay, etc. 
If you have a special learning style that will present a challenge to you in submitting your essay in adherence with the guidelines listed below, please reach out as soon as possible to learn of ways we can accommodate your submission.

Essay Guidelines:
1. The 2020 Essay Contest is open to Native American Youth (either enrolled in a Federally Recognized Tribe OR  descendants living on Indian-owned land) and entering grades 9-12 during the 2020-2021school-year. 
2.  Only one essay submission will be accepted per participant.
3. There should be no identifiable information within the essay itself. (EX. Name, Tribe, etc.)  
4. The essay should be a minimum of 3 full pages and maximum of 5 full pages (excluding works cited), should be double-spaced with 12-point Arial font, and have 1-inch margins. The essay should be converted to a .pdf file and uploaded on the application portal.
5.  A blinded committee will review eligible essays to select three finalists based on organization of information, spelling and punctuation. The finalists will be keynote speakers and honored at the IAC Annual Meeting

Once you press submit, you will receive an email confirmation. 

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