Express yourself: what does democracy mean to you?

Right to Democracy (RtD), an organization that works to dismantle the undemocratic colonial structure that governs the US territories, wants to engage youth voices. 

Our goal is to create a movement that helps people recognize that the United States should not have colonies. We believe that the people who live in the territories should have a say in the decisions that affect their lives.

We hope to foster a space that prioritizes identifying common goals and mechanisms for self-determination. In this context, we are interested in knowing everyone's opinion, including the valuable perspective of youth.

 The “Express Yourself Contest: What Does Democracy Mean to You?” invites young people in the territories to present their views on democracy through the visual arts, words and music.

The competition will take place in all five US territories: Puerto Rico, Guam, Virgin Islands, American Samoa and the Northern Mariana Islands. In this way, we will be able to contrast the similarities and differences that characterize life in these places.

We encourage youth to think about:

• How is democracy related to your rights?
• What is the first image that comes to your mind when you think of democracy?
• How does democracy affect life in your community?
• Imagine a world without democracy: how does it look?

From your inspiration you can create a piece of visual art (drawing, painting or photography), compose a song or write and recite a short poem or text (up to 60 seconds).

Click here to check out our blog for submission guidelines.

To participate, you must have a connection to or live in one of the territories and be between 12 and 17 years old. Winners will receive prizes of: $500, $250 and $100. In addition, the art will be shared on Right to Democracy platforms. The call is open until October 10, 2023. NOW EXTENDED TO JANUARY 31st, 2023!

Submit your entry via [email protected]!