By Tyra Jackson

The Selma Times-Journal

Students from across the country are competing in a nationwide essay and speech contest about freedom and the film “Selma.” But students must act quickly as contest entries are due Feb. 15.

The National Liberty Museum in Philadelphia is sponsoring the Selma Speech and Essay Contest for all United States high school students ages 14-18.

The contest welcomes high school students to submit a video of themselves reading a 500-700 word essay.

In order to participate, students must watch the movie “Selma.” During the video of students reading their speeches, participants are required to begin their video by showing a “Selma” film ticket stub.

The judges include “Selma” actor Common and other Civil Rights activists, professors and business people.

A grand prize of $5,000 will be awarded to the winner. First and second runners-up will receive a cash award of $2,500 and $1,000. Seven honorable mentions will each receive $500. Teachers and mentors who helped sponsor a top 10 finalist will receive $300.

The top three finalists will receive an all-expense paid trip to Philadelphia, where they will be honored at a two-day program on April 20. The winner will be asked to read his or her essay in front of an audience. Winners will be contacted in March.

CEO of the National Liberty Museum Gwen Borowsky said hosting the competition is a perfect fit for the museum.

“Since our founding in the year 2000, we’ve been committed to bringing liberty to life through exciting exhibits,” Borowsky said. “We can’t wait to see the incredible submissions from students around the country.”

For more information about the contest, visit libertymuseumselmacontest.org.