National Child Day Art Showcase My traditions, my rights
National Child Day Art Showcase
National Child Day is celebrated in Canada on November 20 to recognize children’s rights under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
This year, we’re marking National Child Day with the My Traditions, My Rights Art Showcase, celebrating Article 30 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child: the right of every young person to practice their own culture, religion, and language.
We’re inviting children and youth to share their traditions through art that honours identity, celebrates diversity, and highlights the importance of cultural rights, sharing the many ways young people across Alberta connect with their heritage and communities.
Info for young artists
Who can participate?
Children and youth under 24 who are currently receiving, or have previously received, services through Child Intervention or the Transition to Adulthood Program (TAP).
Theme: My Traditions, My Rights
Young people are invited to create art that reflects their traditions through celebrations, religion, language, food, family, stories, or other expressions of culture and identity.
What to submit?
A drawing, painting, or digital artwork (maximum size: 8.5″ x 11″). Must be mailed to the OCYA office with a completed consent form.
How to submit?
Option 1:
Send the participating artist’s mailing address to nationalchildday@ocya.alberta.ca. They’ll receive:
- Full instructions
- A prepaid return envelope
- An optional art template. (you can also use a blank 8.5″ x 11″ page)
Option 2: Mail
Send the completed artwork and consent form to:
Office of the Child and Youth Advocate (OCYA)
600, 9925 109 Street NW
Edmonton, AB T5K 2J8
Be sure to include a return address. Service providers can collect and submit entries on behalf of youth.
Deadline: November 7, 2025
Submission Package
- Selected artwork will be published on the OCYA holiday card and shared with staff, service providers, and partners across Alberta.
- Every youth who submits will receive a thank you card from the Advocate.
- First 25 submissions will also receive an art pad + pencil crayons as a gift.
If postage is a barrier, the OCYA will cover mailing costs for eligible participants—please contact us for support.
Questions?
For inquiries about the art showcase or support with postage, please email nationalchildday@ocya.alberta.ca
