Semiquincentennial Essay Contest
To mark 250 years of the American Experiment, the CCCG proposes a short journalistic essay contest commemorating the semiquincentennial of the Declaration of Independence. The winning essay will contribute a Notre Dame student’s perspective to the CCCG’s broader campaign celebrating the Founding and looking ahead to the next 250 years. It will be published as an interest piece on our “News” page and the author will receive $250.00.
Submissions close on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
Submission Guidelines
Submissions should be between 750 and 1000 words and engage with some or all of the following questions:
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What are you reflecting on as the nation commemorates the Declaration, and the ways in which the United States has aimed to realize its ideals?
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For Catholic students: What does the Declaration of Independence mean to you as a Catholic and an American? Do you see the principles of the Declaration as being compatible with your Catholic faith?
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If you come from a different faith tradition, how would you answer the same questions?
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Why is the Declaration relevant to you? How have your interactions with the ideals put forth in the Declaration formed your life as a student, in internships, work, intellectual development, or daily life?
Submissions are open to all current Notre Dame undergraduates, as well as graduates of the Class of 2026.