Talented
young writers -- HAF is calling on you! Do you know a talented young
writer between the ages of 14 to 27, or are one yourself? Then enter
this year's NextGen Essay Contest. The longevity of a credible Hindu
American voice depends on the voices of the next generation of Hindu
American leaders -- so, kids, express yourself!
Topic:
This year is the 150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. Swami
Vivekananda's teachings were often succinct and to the point, but could
take an earnest learner to the deepest levels of spiritual awareness and
selfless service. Take for example his speech at the World Parliament
of Religions in Chicago 125 years ago. In a mere five word greeting of
"Brothers and sisters of America," he relayed Hinduism's ancient
teaching of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, inspiring so many in the
audience and countless other Americans to live up to the dharmic
understanding of pluralism and mutual respect. His teachings, like
Hinduism, continue to stand the test of time and serve as an inspiration
to Hindus and non-Hindus alike.
HAF
advocates for the community by educating others about Hinduism,
speaking out against violations of human and civil rights, and
cultivating relationships to increase understanding and cooperation. How does the following quote from Swami Vivekananda inspire you to be a Hindu American advocate?
"The
intensive love that humanity has ever known has come from religion, and
the most diabolical hatred that humanity has known has also come from
religion. No other human motive had deluged the world with blood so much
as religion; at the same time, nothing has brought into existence so
many hospitals and asylums for the poor; no other human influence has
taken such care, not only of humanity, but also the lowest of animals,
as religion has done. Nothing makes us so cruel as religion, and nothing
makes us so tender as religion."
Contest Due Date: Friday, September 20, 2013 (11:59pm EST)
Prizes:
- Category 1 (Ages 14-17): First prize - $150; Second prize - $100
- Category 2 (Ages 18-22): First prize - $300; Second prize - $200
- Category 3 (Ages 23-27): First prize - $500; Second prize - $250
- The first prize winning entries will be published on Beliefnet.
Winning entry announcement date: Monday, October 8, 2013
Essay Requirements:
1. Essays must be 12-point type, double-spaced, 1-inch page margins, and in pdf format.
2. Essays must have a title.
3. Essays must be between 700 and 1,000 words.
4. Essays not within these length requirements will not be considered.
5. Sources must be credited in a bibliography.
6.
A one-paragraph bio of the author, including age, must be included at
the end of the essay. Please do NOT submit a separate bio pdf.
Judging Criteria:
Entries will be judged on the depth of their content and the skill with
which they are written. Authors should demonstrate a sound knowledge of
the subject matter and support their assertions. Essays should be free
of grammatical errors and should be clear, concise and well-organized.
Judges reserve the right to present no awards or to reduce the number of
awards if an insufficient number of deserving entries is received.
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