Voice of Democracy

Established in 1947, the Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves regarding a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay.  Each year, nearly 25,000 ninth through 12th-grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.3 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.

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The national first-place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college, or vocational/technical school. A complete list of other national scholarships range from $1,000-$21,000, and the first-place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins at least a scholarship of $1,000. Before submitting your essay, read the rules and eligibility requirements, and find your sponsoring local VFW Post as applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31. Download and complete the 2023-2024 Voice of Democracy entry form here.

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The 2023-24 theme is: 
"What Are the Greatest Attributes of Our Democracy?"

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