HAF invites you to participate in its first ever essay contest. The topic of this year's contest is: Why is it important to have a Hindu American identity? How can you advocate for this identity in your public and private lives? How can Hindu American advocacy be beneficial to American society? All essays must be submitted by the end of Tuesday, June 30. Winning entries will be notified on Friday, August 14. Age Categories & Prize Levels Category 1: Ages 17 - 22; 1st Prize $300, 2nd Prize $200 Category 2: Ages 23 - 28; 1st Prize $500, 2nd Prize $250 All four winning essays will be featured on HAF's website; HinduCurrents blog; HAF's Facebook page and group; and HAF's LinkedIn Group. Essay Requirements Minimum length: 700 words Maximum length: 1000 words 12 point font, double spaced, 1-inch margins Essays must be original work and must include a title, writer's name, email or phone number All citations and paraphrases must be appropriately credited in a bibliography Submission Instructions Essays must be submitted as an email attachment in pdf format along with a brief bio (which includes the writer's age) to essay@hafsite.org. HAF reserves the right to disqualify any essay for not meeting the above stated requirements and instructions. HAF welcomes all those who are eligible to submit original essays! For more information contact HAF's office at 301.770.7835 or email essay@hafsite.org.