Ruben Salazar Memorial Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by United Teachers Los Angeles
Applications are now open for the Ruben Salazar Memorial Scholarship, established in memory of Ruben Salazar — the Los Angeles Times reporter and prominent Chicano activist who was killed in August 1970 while covering the National Chicano Moratorium Against the Vietnam War and the subsequent unrest in East Los Angeles.
Eligibility
- Graduating seniors enrolled in any LAUSD high school, continuation school, or the High School Completion Program offered through an LAUSD Community Adult School may apply.
Awards & schedule
- For 2026, a total of nine scholarships will be granted: eight awards of $750 each and one Legacy Scholarship of $1,500.
- Recipients will be invited to an award brunch on April 18, 2026.
- See the flyer and the application form for full details.
How to enter
- Submit a video no longer than 5 minutes that addresses the following topics:
- Understanding Ruben Salazar’s legacy
- Who was Ruben Salazar and what was his work as a journalist?
- What occurred during the Chicano Moratorium?
- Impact on your community today
- Why does his legacy remain relevant?
- Which issues Salazar advocated for are still present now?
- Personal story and current advocacy
- Share a meaningful experience that links you to Salazar’s pursuit of truth and representation.
- Describe how you are active in your school, family, or community.
- Future commitment
- Explain how you plan to carry forward his legacy during college and into your career.
Required supplemental materials and authenticity
- You must appear and speak in the video (your voice and/or face should be visible for part of the submission).
- A separate written reflection of 150–200 words answering: Why is Ruben Salazar’s story personally meaningful to you, and how did you approach creating this project?
- Any creative material included must be your original work.
- A signed originality statement (form provided) is required.
Deadline
- Entries must be received by Friday, January 30, 2026 at 5:00 PM.
For more information, refer to the scholarship flyer and complete application form.