UIL Academics is proud to sponsor two essay competitions that provide exciting opportunities for students to explore the contributions of historically underrepresented groups to the history and culture of Texas. With a focus on original research and the use of primary sources, students are encouraged to look to their own communities in finding topics for their essays.*

Barbara Jordan Historical Essay

This competition provides students an opportunity to explore the contributions of African Americans to Texas history, as well as honoring the legacy of its namesake, Barbara Jordan. The theme of the competition is "African Americans in Texas: Past and Present."*

Latino History Essay

Initially a competition for students in south Texas, the contest has since been offered to all students in Texas. The theme of the competition is "historical and cultural legacies of Latinos in Texas history."*

*Description from the UIL