ELLICOTT CITY, MD – The Howard County Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission is seeking nominations for its annual “Living the Dream” Award and student entrants for its 2021 essay, oratory and poster contests. The deadline for award nominations and contest entrees is 5:00 p.m., Friday, October 29th.
Our young people, who are our emerging leaders, continue the fight for civil rights and racial justice, standing upon the shoulders of giants, reaching for the stars. The ‘Living the Dream’ award and contests are an incredible way to honor the legacy and work of Dr. King and remind us why we must not grow weary in our efforts to fight for a better future and a better world, for all.
The annual “Living the Dream” Award recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations (community, civic or religious) that promote the teachings and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., through community involvement in Howard County. For eligibility and nomination requirements and/or to submit your nomination, visit the Commission’s contest website.
In addition to its “Living the Dream” award, the Commission is also seeking entries from Howard County students for its essay, oratory and poster contests. For its three contests, the Commission is calling upon students to reflect upon Dr. King’s statement, and this year’s contest theme, “Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” For the essay and oratory contests, middle and high school students must discuss what can be done to foster an inclusive culture in your school, community or organization and give an example of what they have done or experienced that illustrates this. For the essay contest, students with disabilities may submit entries using other media and/or visual presentation. For the poster contest, elementary and middle school students must compose an original piece of artwork using a medium of their choosing that shows their interpretation of this year’s theme.
For complete essay, oratory and poster contest rules and details on how to submit your entry and application, visit Office of Human Rights and Equity’s (OHRE) “Contest and Awards” website. Contest winners will receive a cash prize and listed on OHRE’s website.
“Living the Dream” Award and contests winners will be announced at the Commission’s annual celebration, held virtually on Sunday, January 16, 2022.
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission was established in 1985 to encourage and coordinate appropriate activities and ceremonies throughout Howard County to honor the birthday, ideals and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In addition, the Commission provides assistance to local government and private organizations with respect to the observance of the holiday honoring the birthday of the late Dr. King.
For more information about the “Living the Dream” award and the Student Essay, Poster and Oratory contests, visit OHRE’s “Contest and Awards” website or contact the Office at (410) 313-6430 or email mlk@howardcountymd.gov.