Download Understanding the Rule of Law: Perspectives from Civics Education Essay Contest Winners and more Lecture notes Law in PDF only on Docsity! What does the rule of law mean to you? 2021 Civics Education Essay Contest Elementary School Winners 1st place: Sabina Perez, 4th grade "The rule of law is like a shield defending me from unfairness. It makes me feel brave to stand up for my rights and to speak up to help others. The rule of law is important because it helps people with different opinions join together and live in harmony. It builds and connects communities, and it keeps America strong. Because judges apply the rule of law fairly, I am safe and have nothing to fear. I know I will be educated, and education is power. This makes my future bright." 2nd place: Katie Drummond, 5th grade "When I think of the rule of law, it reminds me of an ecosystem. Because, every member of that ecosystem is affected by its changes or health. The rule of law is similar because when lawmakers make laws, those laws impact its nation or society that those laws are for. If new laws are created or if current laws are changed, it will affect its whole nation or society. I also think that laws should be easy to access, understand, and apply equally to all citizens." 3nd place: Holden Cone, 5th grade "The rule of law means different things to different people, but to me, it means there are boundaries that people cannot overstep, and if they do, they will face the consequences of their actions. Laws are not meant to restrict, they are meant to protect us and make us safer. Without law there would be no order and no rules. No one is above the law, as the laws apply to everyone. I think laws are important to keep us safe and help us." What does the rule of law mean to you? 2021 Civics Education Essay Contest Middle School Winners 1st place: Caroline Rhodes, 7th grade "The rule of law represents a set of rules people follow to maintain order instead of chaos. It states that laws are enforced equally and impartially, meaning they are applied to everyone regardless of status. Likewise, no one is above the law, and everyone is required to obey. This prevents individuals from acting unlawfully and keeps citizens in line based on the law. Last, laws are made and enforced according to established procedures, not the ruler's whim. The rule of law serves to not only create order but to protect our country from crime, bad leadership, and favoritism among citizens." 2nd place: Anthony Fiore, 8th grade "The rule of law is defined as accountability under the law, just laws, open government and accessible justice. It not only governs but represents the values and beliefs of our society. Our laws are based upon the Constitution, which describes the rights that every American, regardless of race, gender, age, or creed, is guaranteed under the law. The rule of law also maintains an orderly society in which our unalienable rights are protected — 'Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness' as our forefathers stated in the Declaration of Independence. This is what the rule of law means to me." 3nd place: Olivia Wasmund, 7th grade "When King John of England signed the Magna Carta in the summer of 1215, the idea of rule of law was conceived. Rule of law signifies equality and fairness —meaning that no one, not even a king or president, is above the law. In democracies, it’s expected that the rule of law be upheld. This promise to protect the rights of citizens is priceless. As an American living abroad in Asia, I find myself surrounded by countries where the rule of law doesn't exist. Yet, today the world is more aware than ever of the importance of this principle."
