VOICE OF DEMOCRACY

2021-2022 Theme: "America: Where do we go from here?"

Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay. Each year, nearly 40,000 9-12 grade students from across the country enter to win their share of $2.1 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.

The national first-place winner receives a $30,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school. A complete list of other national scholarships range from $1,000-$15,000, and the first-place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins a minimum scholarship of $1,000 and an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. Want to apply?

VOD Deadlines:

Midnight, October 31, Entries to the Post*

November 15, Completion of Post judging**

December 15, Completion of District judging**

December 20, District winning entry due to Department Chairman*

January 10, Completion of Department judging**

January 15, District participation reports to Department Chairman**

January 15, Department winners to National*

January 31, Department reports to National*

*required deadlines

**suggested deadlines

Rules and Eligibility Requirements: VOD Rules / Eligibility