Martin Luther King, Jr.
Humanitarian Essay Contest
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Essay Contest, sponsored by The Center
for Race, Ethnicity & Diversity Education at Elon University, promotes Dr. King’s
vision for a more humane society. The essay contest utilizes one of Martin Luther
King’s most powerful communication methods, the written word, to demonstrate
the value of the contributions of one person.
This year’s theme, “ Awakening the Dreamer: A Call to Action.” gives young
scholars the opportunity to articulate how involvement in their schools and
communities support Dr. King’s legacy of peace, equity, and social justice.
The contest is open to all middle school students currently enrolled in private,
public and charter schools. Winners will be recognized at the annual Martin Luther
King, Jr. Commemorative Luncheon Program on Friday, January 23, 2015 at Elon
University at 12:00pm
*All applications and essays must be postmarked
by December 2, 2014*
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Humanitarian Essay Contest
Essay Question
6th Graders – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave a famous speech entitled, “I Have a Dream.” In this
speech, King shared his dream of a world where all people lived in peace and harmony regardless of
their skin color. Write an essay describing your dream for making the world a better place.
7th Graders-In "The Strength of Love," King claimed that fear was the ultimate cause of hatred,
prejudice, and violence. Do you agree or disagree with this assessment? Write a persuasive essay
defending your position.
8th Graders - In his speech “Remaining Awake through a Great Revolution,” King focuses on a
need for justice for all people. He states justice… “comes through the tireless efforts and the
persistent work of dedicated individuals. Write an essay that describes your definition of social
justice and the responsibility of all humans to uphold these truths.
Essays that do not meet the above criteria are not eligible for evaluation.
Enjoy writing!
Essay Criteria
Double-spaced, typed or printed, and no more than two (2) pages. Submitted essay must be 250-500
words and postmarked no later than December 2, 2014.
Please mail or email (from your personal account) your essay and attached application to:
Assistant Director Jamie Butler
The Center for Race, Ethnicity & Diversity Education
2985 Campus Box
Elon, NC 27244
diversity@elon.edu
Notification of Results
All participants will be notified of their results via letter, which will be mailed by January 9, 2014.
Prizes
Each winner will receive a prize of $100, Elon Phoenix paraphernalia, a commemorative plaque, and
complimentary tickets to an Elon home basketball game. The winner, their family, and school
representative will also be invited to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Luncheon
Program on Friday, January 23, 2015 at 12:00pm at Elon University.
Questions?
Please direct questions regarding the essay or requirements to Ms. Jamie Butler at 336-278-7243
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Humanitarian Essay Contest
Application
(Please Print)
Full Name _____________________________
Grade Level (circle one) 6
7
8
Address
______________________________________________________________________
Street
Apt.
______________________________________________________________________
City
State
Zip
Home Number _____________________ Cell Number__________________________
E-mail Address _________________________
Name of Parents/Guardians
______________________________________________________________________
School Name __________________________________________________________
School Phone Number _________________________
School Address
_____________________________________________________________________
Street
City
State
Zip
Name of School Official
_____________________________________________________________________
(Circle one) Principal
Teacher
Guidance Counselor