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2024 Essay Contest

Open to Sarasota County high school students

CHOOSE ONE (1) OF THE TWO PROMPTS BELOW AS THE SUBJECT OF YOUR ESSAY.

Essays should be no longer than 500 words, and must be the student's original work (no AI-generated content).

SUBJECT PROMPT #1:

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. famously said, "We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools." In light of this statement, discuss the role of empathy, understanding, and dialogue in fostering unity within communities. How can young people contribute to building bridges across cultural, racial, and socioeconomic divides, inspired by MLK's teachings? Provide specific examples or initiatives that illustrate effective community building in today's society.

SUBJECT PROMPT #2:

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. famously stated, "The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically." Reflecting on this statement, explore how education can foster critical thinking skills that are crucial for addressing contemporary social issues such as racial inequality, economic disparity, and environmental degradation. How can MLK's emphasis on critical thinking and moral reasoning guide students in navigating complex societal challenges and advocating for meaningful change? Discuss specific initiatives or educational programs that exemplify MLK's principles of education and empowerment.

>> GO HERE to enter and submit your essay

CONTEST RULES

• Essays must be no longer than 500 words
• All essays must be the student’s original work (no AI-generated content). 
• Deadline for submissions is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, November 15, 2024 - NO EXCEPTIONS

Winners will be recognized and awarded at the Annual Dr. King Celebration in January. The first-place winner will read his/her essay at the celebration.

Submitted essays may be published on all SCBA platforms (website, newsletter, social media, monthly magazine, etc.)

PRIZES

• First Place: $1,000
• Second Place: $500
• Third Place: $250

DATES

• November 8, 2024: Essay submissions due by 5PM - NO EXCEPTIONS

For more information, call SCBA Executive Director Holly Lipps at 941-861-8180 or holly@sarasotabar.com. 

>> GO HERE to enter and submit your essay