Organizers of the National Equality March are holding an American Idol-style contest to select two citizen advocates for the speakers platform at the event in Washington, D.C., on October 10 and 11.

“We will have nationally recognized speakers, LGBT leaders and grassroots organizers on the podium,” Kip Williams, co-executive director of the march, said in a press release on Tuesday. “But we know there are passionate, unincorporated individuals who have ideas to share with the crowd. We are letting the public choose the opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime platform for two lucky individuals to speak up for equality.”

A panel of judges will select the top five video entries submitted by September 17, then let the public decide who will receive the opportunity to speak on the podium through voting on Facebook and YouTube. Contestants, who are encouraged to share their “gift for speech and a passionate heart,” should explain why the National Equality March is personally important.

Winners will be flown to the march courtesy of donated tickets. Organizers are in the process of finding housing for winners.
 
Find more submission details here.