We are inviting you to share your spoken and written words through video and blogs to answer these questions:

• What does democracy mean to you as a Native person? You may include how democracy exists within your tribal community both historically and today.
• How do you want Native history and peoples to be included in the conversations around America’s 250th anniversary?
• What are ways you think we can reclaim democracy as Native people and as Americans?

All currently enrolled tribal college students who submit either a blog or video will receive a $25 gift card. You may submit more than one entry but only the first entry is eligible for receipt of gift card – only one gift card per tribal college student.

All accepted blog or video entries are automatically entered into a raffle for a $500 cash prize.

Please submit your blogs and videos through the College Fund’s portal. All submissions are subject to review prior to posting to ensure appropriate language and subject matter focus.

Submitters are encouraged to share their honest perspectives while respecting the audience and intention of the project.

All written (blog) and video entries must be submitted before June 15, 2026 to be eligible to receive a gift card and to be entered into the Reclaim Native Democracy Initiative Raffle.

The Reclaim Native Democracy Initiative Raffle will take place on July 1, 2026. Four eligible tribal college students will be selected in the raffle to receive $500 each. All four winners will be notified by email and included in our social media posts.

• Currently enrolled TCU students.
• Students may submit multiple submissions.
• You may send in multiple submissions for the Democracy Initiative, but only TCU students will receive a $25 gift card based on the first submission.
• Submissions must be original and created by the student.

When starting either your blog/video please start by introducing yourself with your name, tribal affiliation and school you are attending.

✍️ Written Blog Submissions

• Length: 400–600 words.
• First‑person voice encouraged.
• Can include personal stories, cultural context, or community perspective.

🎥 Video Submissions

• Length: 1–3 minutes.
• Orientation: horizontal videos preferred.
• Clear audio required (phone recordings are fine).
• Student must appear on camera.
• Students may submit a blog and/or video.

Audio Tips for Video Submissions

Clear audio helps ensure your message is heard and understood. You don’t need professional equipment. The following few simple steps can make a big difference:

✅ Choose a quiet location

• Record indoors when possible.
• Avoid background noise like TVs, music, fans, traffic, or conversations.

✅ Position your phone close enough

• Keep your phone 2–4 feet away from you.
• Avoid placing the phone too far away across the room.

✅ Do a short test recording

• Record 10–15 seconds and play it back to assess quality.
• Make sure your voice is clear and easy to hear.
• Re‑record if needed before filming the full video.

✅ Avoid windy or outdoor locations

• Wind and outdoor noise can distort audio.
• If recording outside is necessary, stand in a sheltered area and face away from the wind.

✅ Optional: use simple accessories if available

• Earbuds or a small plug‑in microphone can improve sound quality.
• These are helpful but not required—phone audio is acceptable.

Video Tips for Submissions

You don’t need professional equipment to submit a great video. A smartphone is perfect. These simple tips will help your video look and sound clear.

✅ Frame yourself clearly

• Position the camera at eye level.
• Make sure your face is fully visible.
• Leave a little space above your head (don’t cut off the top of your head).

✅ Use good lighting

• Face a window or light source when possible.
• Avoid bright light or windows behind you.
• Indoor lighting is fine—just make sure your face isn’t in shadow.

✅ Keep the camera steady

• Set your phone on a stable surface or tripod.
• Avoid holding the phone if possible.
• Make sure the video isn’t tilted sideways.

✅ Choose a simple background

• Plain walls or uncluttered spaces work best.
• Avoid busy or distracting backgrounds.
• Your story should be the focus.

✅ Look at the camera lens

• This helps your video feel more personal and engaging.
• It’s okay to glance away briefly to gather your thoughts.

✅ Be yourself

• Speak naturally, as if talking to a friend.
• It’s okay to pause, restart a sentence, or take a breath.
• Authenticity matters more than perfection.

Submissions must NOT:

• Endorse or oppose political candidates or parties.
• Advocate for or against specific legislation.
• Include calls to vote for or against a specific ballot measure.
• Use Artificial Intelligence to generate content.

Students are encouraged to:

• Share their personal perspective and experiences thoughtfully and respectfully.
• Explore how learning about democratic systems empowers individuals and communities.
• Highlight the importance of civic participation, including registering to vote, staying informed, and understanding how public systems and leadership impact everyday life.
• Submissions should focus on education, reflection, and personal insight rather than promoting specific candidates, political parties, or legislation.

Use & Permissions

By submitting, students agree that:

• Content may be shared on College Fund platforms (website, social media, publications).
• Their name, TCU, and submitted content may be publicly credited.
• A signed photo/video release is required as part of submission.

Incentives

• Students who submit a qualifying blog or video will receive a $25 gift card per initiative.
• Each submission is automatically entered into a raffle for a $500 award.
• Four students will be selected for the raffle award.

Submission Period

Reclaim Native Democracy Initiative

• Opens: March 15, 2026
• Closes: June 15, 2026
• Raffle winners selected: July 1, 2026

Need Help?

Students who would like assistance shaping their story or preparing a submission may reach out for support. Email publiced@collegefund.org for guidance and resources.