Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition
Hosted by the Garden State Bar Association and the Association of Black Women Lawyers of New Jersey
The Garden State Bar Association and the Association of Black Women Lawyers of New Jersey are proud to host the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition for high school students across New Jersey.
The 2026 competition has concluded. Information regarding the 2027 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition, including the official essay prompt, application materials, deadlines, and competition date, will be posted on this page once available.
About the Competition
Sponsored nationally by the National Bar Association, the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition is a prestigious advocacy program that encourages high school students to engage with important issues of justice, equity, public policy, and civil rights through the lens of Dr. King’s vision of the “Beloved Community.”
The competition is designed to encourage academic excellence, strengthen written and oral advocacy skills, expose students to the legal profession, and provide scholarship opportunities for college-bound students.
Participants are asked to submit a written essay responding to the official competition prompt. Students also participate in an oral advocacy component, during which they present their arguments before a panel of attorneys, judges, and legal professionals.
Purpose of the Program
The Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition gives students an opportunity to think critically about issues affecting their communities and the nation, while developing the skills necessary to become thoughtful advocates and leaders.
Through this program, students gain experience in legal analysis, persuasive writing, public speaking, and advocacy. The competition also provides students with meaningful exposure to judges, attorneys, bar leaders, and mentors committed to supporting the next generation of advocates.
Who May Apply
Eligibility requirements for the 2027 competition will be confirmed in the official application packet. Generally, the competition is open to current high school juniors and seniors who are college-bound and enrolled in New Jersey high schools.
Students, parents, educators, mentors, and community leaders are encouraged to check back for the official 2027 competition materials.
2027 Essay Prompt
The official essay prompt for the 2027 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition will be released in advance of the next competition cycle.
Once issued, the prompt will be posted on this page along with application instructions, formatting requirements, submission deadlines, and competition details.
Scholarships and Advancement
Regional winners may receive scholarship awards, and the Regional First Place Winner may have the opportunity to advance to the National Bar Association’s National Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition, subject to the rules and procedures established for that year’s competition.
Our Commitment
The Garden State Bar Association and the Association of Black Women Lawyers of New Jersey remain committed to expanding opportunities for young people across New Jersey and fostering the next generation of advocates, leaders, and changemakers.
We look forward to continuing this important tradition in 2027.
For questions or partnership opportunities, please contact us at info@gardenstatebar.org.
