Albany County Legislature Opens Youth Essay Contests for Women’s History Month

The Albany County Legislature's Women's Legislative Caucus is excited to find out how students throughout Albany County answer the question, "What does a sustainable future look like to you?"

The query is the catalyst for the Legislature's inaugural Women's History Month Essay contest that launches today. This year's Women's History Month theme, 'Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future,' recognizes the powerful leadership of women in creating a future that is rooted in equity, justice, and opportunity for all.

Essays are limited to 250 words and open to all Albany County students in three groups:

• Kindergarten - Fifth Grade
• Sixth Grade - Eighth Grade
• Ninth Grade - Twelfth Grade

All submissions must include a required entry form available at albanycountyny.gov/legislature. Essays can be sent in through the website or by email to [email protected] by Friday, February 13. All entries must include the author's name and family contact information.

Winners will be selected by an internal panel of legislators and staff and will have their work posted on the county's website, receive official Legislature certificates, and be recognized during the Legislature's annual Women's History Month event scheduled for Friday, March 6, in the Cahill Room of the Albany County Office Building.

Albany County Legislature Chairwoman Joanne Cunningham said: "We are excited for this opportunity to engage with new ideas, perspectives, and opinions. It makes us better lawmakers now and prepares the next generation for leadership."

Albany County Legislature Deputy Chairwoman Wanda Willingham said: "Getting a fresh look at something, a different take on a situation, is invaluable for us. Working across generations of leaders is a crucial aspect of maintaining a strong democracy. We highly encourage all of our students to participate in this contest."