Friends,

We’ve heard jokes that there’s no money in social activism.  But this fall, we’re teaching high school students a lesson they may not learn in school:  having a conscience does pay, and this year, it pays $12,500.

Each year, the ACLU distributes scholarships to young activists throughout the country who have taken a stand for the issues that matter most:  free speech, racial justice, religious freedom, the right to protest and other civil liberties that make democracy strong.
 

Last year, a New Jersey student won an ACLU scholarship.  Matthew LaClair fought back when he suffered retaliation for proving that a teacher at Kearny High School was preaching religion in class.

But we know there are more stories out there of New Jersey students standing up for their own rights and those of others.

If you are a high school senior who's been a civil liberties activist or know someone who fits the bill, it could be worth $12,500 in bills.  But the deadline is approaching quickly.  We need an application and letter of recommendation for scholarship candidates by Monday, December 1.

You can find the forms on our website and call our office at 973-642-2086 (ask for Allison) with any questions. We can’t wait to hear about how you’ve been guarding our rights.

Deborah

American Civil Union of New Jersey, PO Box 32159, Newark NJ 07102