Writing Competition Honors 35 Years of the ADA

 

In honor of the 35^th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Center for Disability Empowerment is thrilled to invite both young and adult writers to participate in a special writing competition. This is your chance to share your voice and reflect on the profound impact that the ADA has had on the disability community.

Event Details

The culminating event will take place on July 11, 2025, at the Columbus Museum of Art. This milestone celebration will not only highlight the advancements made since the signing of the ADA but will also acknowledge ongoing challenges and celebrate those who are committed to promoting disability rights and equality.

 

Prizes and Recognition

Selected writers will have the opportunity to present their work at the event and will be rewarded with cash prizes. Two first-place winners (one from each category) will receive $300 each, while two second-place winners will earn $200 each.

 

Who Can Enter

The competition is open to Ohio residents in two categories:

• Youth (ages 14-23)
  
  
• Adult (ages 24 and older)

 

Writing Prompt

Submissions should respond to the following prompt: 

"The ADA has done things for America’s disability community. What are you doing that might not have been possible without the ADA?"

 

Submission Guidelines

Accepted formats: Prose, poetry, or an ASL-performed statement. 

• Length: Up to 600 words for written submissions; ASL performances may be up to three minutes long.
  
  
• Deadline: All submissions must be received by 11:59 PM on May 15, 2025.
  
  
• Submission method: Please send your entry as a Word document in an attached email. ASL submissions can be included as a YouTube link.

 

How to Apply

To submit your work, email it as a Word document to hello@austindunn.net. If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, please don't hesitate to reach out to the same email.