Citizenship, patriotism and flag education is the focus of the Americanism program. Participating in patriotic celebrations, the distribution of flag codes, donations of flags to schools, organizations and institutions, working with Scout Troops and “Get out the Vote” campaigns are some of the activities we encourage members to participate in.
Key Program Statements
- Be knowledgeable on flag history, etiquette, and proper disposal methods, and promote the observation of patriotic holidays so your community will look to the ALA for information.
- Increase participation in the Americanism Essay Contest.
- Participate in the promotion of The American Legion Americanism programs.
Department Chairman: Lucille Mozzillo
Email: nyalaamericanism@gmail.com
2026-2027 Information and Report Forms:
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- Plan of Action
- COUNTY REPORT FORM
- UNIT REPORT FORM
- The 2026-2027 ALA Americanism Essay Contest theme:
- Essay Title: “How can you be a beacon of light for our veterans?”
- 2027 COVER SHEET
- FLOW CHART FOR SUBMITTING ESSAY
Important Dates:
- Americanism Essay Contest: Winning essays are due to national division chairman by April 15.
- Unit Award: Most Outstanding Unit Americanism Program (per division) — submitted by 5 p.m. ET on June 1.
- Department Award: Best Department Americanism Program (per division) — submitted by 5 p.m. ET on June 1.
- Department Chairman Report due to National Committee: May 15.
Essay Contest Rules
The American Legion Auxiliary’s Americanism Essay Contest is for students in grades 3-12, including students with special needs, divided into six classes. One award in each class will be presented in each division. Winners will receive a $50 check, and a $50 donation in the student’s name will be made to the Spirit of Youth Scholarship Fund.
Essay Classes:
Class Grade Level Word Requirement* I 3 and 4 150-250 II 5 and 6 250-300 III 7 and 8 350-400 IV 9 and 10 450-500 V 11 and 12 450-500 VI Students with special needs Word count should correspond with student’s grade level
- The Americanism Essay Contest cover sheet must be filled out legibly and completely. Failure to do so will result in disqualification.
- Departments (states) will determine the deadline for the local unit contests.
- Essays will be due from the state department chairs to the Americanism Division chairs by April 15.
- Essays received after the contest deadline will not be accepted.
- Submissions become property of the American Legion Auxiliary. Through submission of an essay, contestants and their legal guardians grant non-exclusive reproduction and publication rights to the works submitted and agree to have their names and writing published for commercial use without additional compensation or permission.
- The essay shall be the work of only one individual.
- Use of AI in writing essays is not allowed. Essays will be checked for use of AI. Any essay determined to be 30% or more AI written will be disqualified.
- Essays will be scored using the following rubric:
- Word Count: 5pts.
- Cover Sheet: 5pts.
- Topic/Theme — Does the Essay Answer the Topic Question?: 25pts.
- Content — Original Thought: 25pts.
- Grammar: 10pts.
- Clarity/Coherence: 10pts.
- Organization — Introduction, Body, and Conclusion: 10pts.
- Correct Word Usage: 10pts.
THE DECISION OF THE JUDGES SHALL BE FINAL.
Essay Contest Awards
Grade levels are divided into six classes. One award in each of the six classes will be presented in each division. Winners will receive $50 and a $50 donation in the student’s name will be made to the Children of Warriors National Presidents’ Scholarship fund.
From the National website:
Americanism Key Resources
Looking for ideas?
ALA Committee Facebook Groups are spaces on the social media network for ALA members to discuss or share about broad or narrow topics related to each committee. Groups provide an arena for organic discussion about your local programs or services and present the opportunity to cultivate brand awareness.
The fundamental value of the American Legion Auxiliary is showing respect for our country and our nation’s flag. This is a place to share activities and events, ask questions, obtain information and promote the love of our country.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/818779828161560