Every year, the Youth Free Expression Program (YFEP) invites young filmmakers to create a short film on a contemporary First Amendment issue. This year, the topic for the Youth Free Expression Film Contest is SPEAKING WITH PEOPLE WHOSE IDEAS YOU HATE.
People often want to silence ideas that they find harmful or offensive, but in a democratic society, free speech includes listening to ideas we dislike. Democracy is built on accepting and engaging with a diversity of viewpoints. Although it may make us uncomfortable to hear ideas we disagree with, it is essential to defend and protect the freedom of expression. Young people are confronted daily with views they disagree with, from censorship in schools to online hate speech – That’s why we’re asking young people to make a video exploring speaking with people whose ideas you hate.
The first-place winner receives a scholarship to the New York Film Academy (terms and conditions apply). The top three filmmakers (individual or team) will receive cash prizes of $1,000, $500, and $250.
2023 winners include:
FIRST PLACE: “Listen to Me” by Adyson Vega
SECOND PLACE: “Copycat” by Kevin Gruen
THIRD PLACE: “The Suggestion Box” by Jamie Lu
Questions?
Please send us a note at [email protected]
The National Coalition Against Censorship’s annual Youth Free Expression Film Contest invites young filmmakers to create a short film on a contemporary First Amendment issue. Over the past 15 years, the contest has showcased the talents and ideas of dozens of student filmmakers. NCAC’s Youth Free Expression Program Film Contest is made possible by generous support from the New York Film Academy.