Each year on May 1st, the United States observes Law Day in celebration of our legal system and the freedoms we enjoy. This year, the Office for Justice Initiatives has partnered with the Historical Society of the New York Courts to invite high school students in New York State, to participate in an art contest inspired by the American Bar Association's 2024 Law Day theme, "Voices of Democracy."
All submissions must be received by April 11, 2024.The winner will be announced on May 1, 2024. Review the contest rules for more information and complete the registration form to enter the contest. Registration forms and artwork may be submitted electronically or by regular mail.
The winners will have their artwork featured on the Office for Justice Initiatives’ Law Day website until Law Day 2025. All contestants will receive a pocket United States Constitution and a certificate of participation. Cash prizes courtesy of the Historical Society of the New York Courts will be awarded to first, second, and third prize winners.
Law Day 2023 Art Contest Winners
The winners of the 2023 Law Day Art Contest are Liane Jackson, Molly Giordano and Chanely Herrera. Congratulations! Cash prizes will be awarded to the winners courtesy of the Historical Society of the New York Courts.
First Prize, “The Threads of Our Nation” by Liane Jackson
Artist’s description: Three individuals meant to represent each of the three cornerstones of democracy work in unison to form the Star-Spangled Banner. It is incomplete to show the work still being done to improve an ever-evolving nation as efficient progress is made by working together. Purple, as used for the person at the top of the piece, represents the citizenship associated with Civics. Pink is the sense of politeness that comes with Civility. Finally, yellow, the ideal color for modern workspaces as it encourages teamwork and optimism, is used for Collaboration.
Second Prize, “Unity” by Molly Giordano
Artist’s description: While creating this piece I was inspired to express how we as citizens are unified through democracy. As well as the three branches of government, the three cornerstones of democracy are also very important. Civics is the study of our rights as citizens, Civility is politeness, and courtesy in behavior, and Collaboration is the action of working together. These cornerstones help unify our people and improve our daily lives. In the piece I created I showed the capitol building with three pillars and each one represents a different cornerstone.
Third Prize, “We Work Together as One” by Chanely Herrera
Artist’s description: Everyone should work together to complete an assignment faster. When we work together, we create more bright and wonderful memories together.
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