“WE HOLD THESE TRUTHS”

Creatives Contest

Overview

The Sonoma County Democratic Party is sponsoring a creatives contest celebrating
the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Middle Schoolers, High
Schoolers, and Young Adults (post-high school, up to age 25) are eligible to
participate.

Contestants are invited to submit original art, writing, or a performance inspired by
this enlightening passage from the Declaration of Independence:

Entries should be respectful to all cultures, races, religions, and orientations, and
be uplifting and inspiring. Works will be submitted to the Sonoma County
Democratic Party and will be displayed in an exhibit and reception open to the
public in May on a date and at a location to be determined.

How to Enter

There is no fee to enter the contest. Complete the online entry form at
https://bit.ly/3NrPinE Deadline: Monday, April 20, 2026

Awards

Prizes will be awarded in each Age Group – Middle Schooler, High Schooler, and
Young Adult.

First place and honorable mention prizes will be awarded in each category (art,
writing, performance) for High Schoolers and Young Adults. Two first place and two
honorable mention awards will be awarded to Middle Schoolers.

First place prizes will be $250. Honorable mention prizes will be $50. Middle school
prizes will be awarded to the contestant’s school for Arts & Humanities programs
supplies. A grand prize of $350 will be awarded to the best overall submittal.

Entry Descriptions and Rules

All submittals should be original works inspired by the words from the Declaration of
Independence and created solely by the entrant. The Sonoma County Democratic
Party reserves the right to reject any entry based on appropriateness or safety.

ART – including painting, drawing, collage, mixed media, photography,
sculpture, ceramics. Two-dimensional works should be mounted and have
a hanger of some sort on the back. Three-dimensional works should not
exceed 3’ high x 2’ wide x 2’ deep or 30 pounds, and have a stable base.
Artwork will need to be delivered to the Sonoma County Democratic Party
office, 448 Sebastopol Avenue, Santa Rosa, 95404 by Friday, April 25 (office
hours for the week to be announced).

WRITING – including essays, poetry, short stories. Written works should
not exceed 1200 words. Submittals may be posted for download or made
via email to poc@sonomademocratics.org.

PERFORMANCE – including music, dance, theater. Performances should
not exceed 3 minutes and be recorded on video for submittal. Submittals
may be posted for download or made via email to
poc@sonomademocratics.org

Submittals in each category shall be judged based on:

• Relevance to the passage from the Declaration of Independence
• Originality
• Workmanship

Decisions of the judges will be final.

Questions? Email poc@sonomademocrats.org