Images: Reverend James Edwards at the unveiling of the Edwards v. SC historical marker in 2021, Benedict College; and Evansville Press, February 27, 1963.
In 1961, 187 Black students walked to the South Carolina State House to protest racial discrimination. Hundreds of onlookers gathered as the students “peaceably expressed their grievances” and “sang patriotic and religious songs.” Although the protestors were not violent and did not threaten violence, the police ordered them to disperse and arrested the students for breaching the peace. The Supreme Court reversed
the students’ convictions, explaining that the Constitution “does not permit a State to make criminal the peaceful expression of unpopular views.” Edwards v. South Carolina, 372 U.S. 229, 237 (1963).
In Edwards v. South Carolina, the Supreme Court held in
1963 that the Constitution “does not permit a State to make criminal the peaceful expression of unpopular views.” How would you address the right to assemble peaceably through video or art?
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit is pleased to announce that the 2024 video and art contest celebrating Bill of Rights Day is now open to all students currently in grades 6 through 12 from Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia,
and West Virginia.
Students are invited to consider and share their thoughts on the question: In Edwards v. South Carolina, the Supreme Court held in 1963 that the Constitution “does not permit a State to make criminal the
peaceful expression of unpopular views.” How would you address the right to assemble peaceably through video or art?
Grades 9-12: Students have the opportunity to win one of three cash prizes: first place, $1,000; second place, $750; and third place, $500.
Grades 6–8: Students have the opportunity to win one of three cash prizes: first place, $250; second place, $175; and third place, $100.
Deadline: Entry form and artist statements must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, November 1, 2024.
Winners will be announced the first week in December. A virtual event
will be held to celebrate the contest winners, and the Fourth Circuit will display electronic or printed copies of the winning submissions and artist statements in the courthouse.
For additional information, questions to consider, and instructions on how to submit your entry and artist statement, visit www.ca4.uscourts.gov/art-contest.
For questions, contact civics@ca4.uscourts.gov or call 703-518-8180.
Please note: Prior winners of any Fourth Circuit-sponsored contest as well as children, grandchildren, stepchildren, and members of the household of a federal judge or federal judiciary employee may not participate in the competition.