The Intellectual Freedom Challenge is an annual initiative jointly sponsored by NEHS and Sigma Tau Delta that encourages students to engage with complex issues surrounding intellectual freedom.
This challenge invites NEHS members to research, reflect, and write argumentative essays explaining why a text of their choice should be made freely available to young people.
This year submitting students critically examined cases where intellectual freedom is at risk and advocated for free access to information and expression. By doing so, they not only demonstrated their analytical and communication skills but also promoted awareness and appreciation for the freedoms essential to a democratic society.
The winners of the 2024 NEHS Intellectual Freedom Challenge, and their essay titles, are:
Daniel Nieman, Tabb High School, Virginia
“Why so Critical? The Truth of Black History in America” (Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You)
Natalee Daniels, The Middle College at Austin Peay State University, Tennessee
“A Voice Against Censorship” (1984)
Ines Yanez, Temecula Preparatory School, California
“To Kill a Book” (To Kill a Mockingbird)
Gabriella Cordero, Jose Marti STEM Academy, New Jersey
“Defending Literary Freedom: Why The Color Purple Should be Accessible in Schools” (The Color Purple)
Raven Carter, West Harrison High School, Mississippi
“A Tale of Two Worlds: The Controversy Surrounding To Kill a Mockingbird” (To Kill a Mockingbird)
Katherine Pérez Cabello, PrepaTec Saltillo, Mexico
“Revolution in Black and White: Freedom Through Narratives” (Persepolis)
Erin Yelland, Gerstell Academy, Maryland
“Dangers of Banning the Beauty of the World” (The Giver)
Each student receives a $150 prize for submitting a winning essay and their Chapter Advisor also receives a prize of $50 for encouraging their students to read freely and widely.
Learn more about the NEHS Intellectual Freedom Challenge and consider applying for the 2025 competition.
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