Joe Cook Memorial Essay Contest

Since 1956, the ACLU of Louisiana has worked to advance and preserve the individual rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution. One of the most fearless champions of these fundamental rights and liberties was our former executive director, Joe Cook, who passed away in 2018.

As a high school senior, you are the future of civil liberties in our state. We invite you to celebrate the Bill of Rights and honor Joe Cook's legacy by entering the Joe Cook Memorial Essay Contest.

This year, we are asking participants to reflect on the rights of transgender students, which often come under attack here in Louisiana and across the country. In what ways can cisgender students be allies for transgender students in school or otherwise? What kind of policies do you think your school should initiate to be more inclusive and welcoming of transgender students?

Please respond to this prompt in 500 words or less. You must be a current high school senior at a Louisiana high school. Winners will receive prizes starting at $150 and recognition at an ACLU of Louisiana special event. Please submit your response by 11:59pm CST on Monday, March 16, 2020.

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