WASHINGTON — GoRail, an advocacy group linking the rail industry with local leaders and the public in support of freight rail transportation, has announced a national essay contest for entrants to share how freight rail impacts their communities as part of its Rail Champions initiative.
The 300- to 600-word essays, responding to the prompt “I’m a Rail Champion because …,” should focus on the role of freight railroads in their communities, highlighting specific local benefits or experiences. Submissions will be evaluated on community connection, clarity, creativity, and personal perspective. The grand prize is the original artwork for GoRail’s 2024 holiday card, created by artist Adam Hansen. Twenty additional winners will receive Rail Champion hats. Deadline for submission is Jan. 17, 2025; guidelines and submissions are available here.
“Freight rail is the backbone of our economy and a cornerstone of sustainable infrastructure,” Russ McGurk, president of GoRail, said in a press release. “This contest gives individuals the opportunity to celebrate that impact by sharing their own experiences and perspectives, which we’ll use to inform and inspire leaders in Washington and beyond.”
