JERSEY CITY –– As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Sen. Andy Kim (D-NJ) officially launched “Honoring America 250,” a multi-platform student and community initiative aimed at honoring America’s history and independence while also exploring lessons learned throughout the first 250 years to better shape and inform the next 250.
“Our founders' quest for equality and independence began 250 years ago, but it is a delicate experiment we continue to fight for each and every day,” Kim said. “‘Honoring America 250’ will celebrate the bravery, diversity, and resilience Americans have shown since 1776 while encouraging thought and conversation with students and communities across New Jersey as we embark on America's next chapter.”
From essay competitions to video submissions and social media collaborations, ‘Honoring America 250’ will encourage students to think critically about the next chapter of the American experiment. Programming will highlight New Jersey’s diverse communities and offer the next generation an opportunity to engage directly with Senator Kim on the future of our nation.
To view full details and submission instructions, see kim.senate.gov/america-250
‘Honoring America 250’ Programs include:
“Ought to be a Law” Policy Initiative Competition
o Open to all students in grades 9-12, this high school competition asks students to propose a new law.
o Select students will be invited to participate in a legislative meeting where they will pitch their bill to Senator Kim.
“America’s 250th Journey: Then, Now, and Tomorrow” Art Competition
o Open to all students in grades 9-12, the art competition will have students display America’s 250 or their vision for the future through art.
o The winning pieces will be displayed in Senator Kim’s office in Washington, D.C.
High School Press Conference with Senator Kim
o New Jersey high school student reporters will run a traditional ‘in-person press availability’ where they’ll celebrate the first amendment by asking Senator Kim questions with follow ups to develop stories for their respective outlets.
o Reporters who RSVP will be sent a press advisory with more information closer to the actual date.
250th Celebration Essay Contest
o Open to students in grades 4-8, this 300–500 word essay asks the question, “As we reflect on the past, it’s also important to look ahead to the future: What kind of country do we want to build? If you could shape the next 250 years, what would YOU focus on? What should our country strive to achieve?
o Contest will be broken down to two age categories: 4th-6th, 7th-8th. Winners from each category will be invited to read their essay aloud at a future event.
Trending Now: YOUR American Story
o We invite New Jerseyans of all ages to create an Instagram reel highlighting their cultures, heritage, and backgrounds to honor and celebrate the strength of New Jersey’s diversity.
o Tag @SenatorAndyKim for a chance to be highlighted on our social media pages.
Anyone interested in learning more including programming including deadlines, submission instructions, and templates can visit kim.senate.gov/America-250 or email [email protected].
