Local 5th-Grader's Essay Wins New Jersey Americanism Award

SOMERVILLE, NJ - Vicky G. Sun of Bridgewater’s Hillside Intermediate School has taken 1st Place for the 2023-24 New Jersey State Americanism Essay Contest in the 5th Grade Division.

There were over 6,000 entries among the 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th Grade divisions. Her essay will now move on to the National level where it will represent New Jersey in the 5th Grade Division. The National Winner will be announced at the Grand Lodge Convention in Austin Texas in July.

Sun was awarded a $400 check from the NJ State Americanism Committee and a certificate which were presented to her at the US Naturalization ceremony at the Somerset County Administration Building on Flag Day, June 14, by Michael Minaides Somerville Elks Lodge #1068 Americanism Committee chairman. She was accompanied by her mother, Jennifer Guo and her teacher, Kiran Masud.

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The State Americanism Committee will also present a plaque to the Somerville Lodge at the June Conference in Wildwood for sponsoring Sun.  This year’s theme was “What the Bill of Rights Means To Me”.

Read her award-winning essay below:

Unleashing Freedom: The Bill of Rights, by Vicky G Sun
Hillside Intermediate School, 5th Grade Bridgewater, NJ

The Bill of Rights, comprising the first ten amendments to the Constitution, stands as a cornerstone in safeguarding the rights of all Americans. It played a crucial role in establishing the framework of this country. I see this enduring document as something that everyone in America looks up to and trusts to keep them safe and free. It promises American citizens “the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” America has served as a haven to many refugees fleeing from oppressive conditions, particularly lack of freedom of speech.

The first amendment is most meaningful to me because it protects people’s freedom of speech. It reflects the belief that we’re allowed to share our thoughts and disagree. All American citizens are allowed to speak their minds without fear of repercussions. It fosters a society where diverse perspectives contribute to the nation’s strength and helped America become the world’s most powerful country.

Additionally, the Bill of Rights also plays a huge role in my life. I appreciate that I have a voice in what happens at my school and in my community. As a student council representative of my class, I can express my thoughts about how the school should improve at our meetings and pass on suggestions from my classmates. If we identify a problem at school, the freedom of speech allows us to share our concerns to a staff member. It supports an environment where constructive dialogue can lead to positive change. However, it’s important for us to exercise this right responsibly without bullying others but respecting the diversity of opinions.

In essence, the Bill of Rights means a lot to me, protecting all Americans’ freedoms, allowing us the right to the pursuit of happiness, and most importantly, shaping the foundation of our free nation to prosper.

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