California Legislators Announce 2022 Essay and Visual Arts Scholarships to Raise Awareness of the Armenian Genocide

Assemblymember Chris Holden, as part of The California Armenian Legislative Caucus, announced the annual scholarship contest on Wednesday.

“Although I am not of Armenian descent, the story and history of the Armenian people has touched my heart,” said Assemblymember Chris Holden.

The annual scholarship is a reminder that education has the power to inspire generations and I am honored to be a part of this effort.

The caucus is holding two scholarship contests for the 2022 remembrance of the Armenian Genocide. California high school students from 9-12 grades are invited to participate in an essay contest and/or a visual arts contest to increase greater awareness of the Armenian Genocide on its anniversary.

All winners will be contacted directly and announced to mainstream and Armenian media by the California Armenian Legislative Caucus on April 15.. All winners will be awarded scholarships and will be acknowledged at the California Armenian Legislative Caucus’ annual Armenian Advocacy Day and receive special recognition from the members of the Armenian Caucus. Original artwork will be requested from visual arts applicants if they are selected as a finalist for possible display in the California State Capitol.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, final details will be given closer to the event date.

Criteria for each contest are detailed below. Students may enter both contests, but submissions must be entered separately.

Essay Scholarship Awards:

• First Place: $1,000

• Second Place: $750

• Third Place: $500

Visual Art Scholarship Awards:

• First Place: $1,000

• Second Place: $750

• Third Place: $500

The deadline for all essay and visual arts submissions is April 8, 2022.

For more information contact Assemblymember Holden’s office by clicking here.