The 2026 Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition is Here!
Who Is Eligible to Participate:
High School Juniors (Class of 2027) and Seniors (Class of 2026) from Nassau and Suffolk County.
What is required:
An essay and then a presentation of the essay in an oratory contest. The essay must be submitted with the application form. The essay question, application and competition rules are in the download.
When is it due?
All applications are due to Amistad no later than April 20, 2026. The applications should be emailed to: amistadblackbar@gmail.com
More about the competition:
Throughout the United States, affiliate chapters such as AMISTAD will hold local
competitions to identify students who will participate in the Regional Competition to be held on May 18, 2024. The first-place winner of the Regional Competition will be eligible to enter the National Competition, which will be held in personduring the NBA’s 101st Annual Convention & Exhibits in Nashville, TN on Thursday, July 30, 2026.
For the National Competition, a first place, second place, and third place winner will be chosen. The winners will each receive a one-time scholarship in the following amounts: First Place - $5,000, Second Place - $3,500, Third Place - $2,000,and $500 for the remaining competitors. AMISTAD competitors consistently place in the National Competition, and we are excited to continue the momentum.
This year's competition question:
Former President Donald Trump's immigration policies focused on strict border control, limiting both legal and illegal immigration, and expanding the power of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) todetain and deport undocumented immigrants. Supporters say these actions protect American jobs and national security, which critics argue they created fear, divide families, and conflict with America's values of compassion and equality. Dr. Martin Luther King,Jr. envisioned a "beloved community" -- a society grounded in justice, empathy, and respect for human dignity. If Dr. King were alive today, would he agree or disagree with Trump's approach to immigration and the use of ICE? How might his vision of the belovedcommunity guide his response to today's immigration policies and enforcement practices?
Please email amistadblackbar@gmail.com with any questions.
