American Legion Department of Indiana High School Oratorical Contest

The American Legion Oratorical Contest exists to develop deeper knowledge and appreciation for the U.S. Constitution among high school students. Since 1938, the program has presented participants with an academic speaking challenge that teaches important leadership qualities, the history of our nation's laws, the ability to think and speak clearly, and an understanding of the duties, responsibilities, rights, and privileges of American citizenship. Posts sponsor contestants to compete against their peers and move up to their respective Districts. Zone winners compete at the Department (state) level and the Department winner will earn the opportunity to represent Indiana at the National level of competition. There they will compete for a chance to win up to $25,000 in scholarships. The contest is open to any high school student under 20 years of age. The contest is open to any student who is enrolled in classes equivalent to the regular 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th grades. Students must be enrolled in an Indiana high school during any and all levels of participation in this contest. All contestants must be a citizen of or lawful permanent resident of the United States. Students may only enter one District, Zone and State competition. The contestants must prepare an oration. A single main speech topic related to the United States Constitution will be required with a length of 8 to 10 minutes, as well as an "Assigned Topic" that must consume 3 to 5 minutes of presenter's delivery. The topic for the 2025 contest is based on the Amendment I; Amendment VII; Amendment XVIII Sections 1, 2, and 3; Amendment XXVI Sections 1 and 2 of the U.S. Constitution. To enter, school officials must fill out and sign the "Certification of High School Representative" form. Applications may be submitted through email or mail. For assistance, contact Wendy McGinness at 317-630-1301 or wmcginness@indianalegion.org.