Cristina Leake, a Catherine McAuley High School senior, was recently selected as one of the winners of the 2011 Bill of Rights Scholarship Essay Contest, sponsored by the National Foundation for Women Legislators (NFWL). She will receive her award in August at NFWL’s 73^rd Annual Conference in Des Moines, Iowa, where she will meet local and national legislators.

Below is a brief excerpt from Miss Leake’s winning essay entitled, “Social Media: For Better and For Worse”:

“…Until the mid1950s the only way to view an event of widespread importance was to personally attend said event.  Involvement meant dedication.  Involvement had value.  June 1, 1853 Elizabeth Cady Stanton delivered Temperance and Women’s Rights in Rochester, New York.  Due to the time period, her speech lacked all media coverage above press.  This absence placed an invisible limitation on her dispatch; however, those who attended experienced genuine passion.   In the past those bold enough would shout their approval or disapproval.  They would hoist signs above their heads, branding the sky with their opinions.  Today such demonstrations are meaningless.  The simplicity and anonymity creates an environment that promotes rashness.  A moment of fury can in seconds turn into an impulsive rude comment and though disrespectful it is protected under the First Amendment.  The casualness by which media can be accessed today dismisses the true privilege and power with which it should be associated”.  

The McAuley community is very proud of this poised, articulate young woman! Congratulations, Cristina!