Grayslake North senior in state Constitution competition

Submitted by Grayslake Community High School District 127

Heather Richey, a senior at Grayslake North High School, will speak at the Illinois American Legion State Oratorical Competition Saturday, March 2, sharing her formal reflections on American citizenship and the Constitution.

She qualified for the state competition after delivering two speeches at the 10th District American Legion competition, held at Grayslake Central High School on Jan. 12. The purpose of the contest is to develop deeper knowledge of the Constitution and what it means to be a citizen among high school students.

“Preparing for this experience encouraged me to learn more about how the Constitution protects our rights today,” she said after the contest. “I have learned a lot myself and have talked to many friends who have also taken an interest in it.”

Heather’s speeches focused around her understanding of what it means to be a good citizen, which she sought to understand from a young age because strangers would often approach her mother and thank her for her service. Heather’s mother is a military officer with 26 years of service in the Marines and Air Force.

“Heather is a dynamic speaker and has a clear, heartfelt message,” said Karen White, Commander of the American Legion Post in Grayslake. “The American Legion is thrilled and honored to have Heather represent us and the 10th District at the State Oratorical competition.”

The American Legion has a number of programs and scholarship opportunities for high school students. Of all the contests, the oratorical competition likely requires the most preparation since all speeches are given without reference to notes. There is over $13,000 in scholarship money for the finalists at the state level, and much more at the national level competition.

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