MLK Jr. essay writing contest detailed

Sandy Williams, left, essay co-chairperson, and Asantewa Anyabwile, essay chairperson -- File photo
STEUBENVILLE — The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Association of Steubenville is holding its annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. essay writing contest.
“The purpose of this contest is to encourage students to reflect upon Dr. King’s life and the impact of his work during the civil rights movement and in present-day America,” explained Asantewa Anyabwile, essay chairperson.
Assisting her is Sandy Williams, co-chairperson.
“It challenges students to think about how human rights and diversity affect their lives and how they can continue the work of Dr. King by making a difference in their own way,” Anyabwile noted.
All students are welcome to participate with the deadline being Jan. 10 for essays to be submitted.
“Dr. King did many great things and inspired many to continue to fight for civil rights, but the journey to equality and justice is not complete,” Anyabwile said.
“Each participant in the essay contest is invited to participate by responding to the following question: What more can or will you do to continue Dr. Martin Luther King’s fight for equality and justice?”
There will be first- and second-place winners in each grade category. Winners will receive recognition and cash prizes.
The top winners will read their essays at the Martin Luther King Jr. community celebration at Steubenville High School that begins at 11 a.m. on Jan. 21.
All winners will receive their awards at the celebration.
“Dr. King is known for being one of the greatest leaders in the civil rights movement in the United States,” she said.
“Dr. King played an important role in ending the legal segregation of black people in the United States. He tried to bring about equality and justice for all. Dr. King’s work influenced his son Martin Luther King III. On the 50th anniversary of his father’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech, Martin Luther King III said: ‘This task is not done. The journey is not complete. We can do and must do more.’ His words remind us that part of Dr. King’s legacy is to never stop fighting for justice, equality and truth,” Anyabwile said.
Entries can be submitted to MLK Essay Contest, P.O. Box 301, Steubenville, OH 43952.
Questions or the need for additional information regarding the essay contest can be directed to (740) 346-9925.
For information concerning the overall MLK local celebration, contact Jim Baber, MLK association president, at Eastern Gateway Community College, (740) 264-5591, ext. 1902.
The contest is sponsored by EGCC, Huntington Bank and the Franciscan University of Steubenville.