WOOLWICH TWP. — “What does freedom mean to me?” This is the question that 1st through 12th grade students are answering for the Juneteenth Art and Essay Contest sponsored by HELP Inc.
Juneteenth is a state and national holiday celebrating the ending of slavery in America. “While we are celebrating with a huge festival on June 18th, we also want to engage young people intellectually,” said Rev. Sherry Hall, HELP, Inc. Director of Community Programming. “All students are welcomed to participate, and prizes will be awarded.”
“We are very excited that our local school districts will be supporting their students in this educational endeavor,” said Dr. Michele Blair, Contest Chairman. The elementary essay contestants must write a poem or essay about “What freedom means to me.” Upper Elementary students should also tie in their understanding of Juneteenth. Middle and High school contestants should write a creative essay (minimum one page, MLA format) that demonstrates why Juneteenth is a federal holiday and shows their understanding of the similarities and differences between Independence Day and Juneteenth.
Middle and High School artists artwork, in any medium, must express what freedom means to them in the context of Juneteenth.
Winners will be recognized at the Juneteenth Festival held at Kingsway High School, Lot F on Garwin Road., Woolwich Township. Middle and High school winners will win cash and prizes, plus media and school recognition. Elementary student winners will receive fun prizes and school recognition.
All entries must be submitted to their teacher or school office by June 8.
Generous business owners and individuals make this contest possible. HELP is seeking more donations to encourage young people to participate. “We especially want to give a healthy cash prize to the high school winners. Many students need money to help with future college expenses,” said Hall.
To donate, visit www.helpinc.org and write “Juneteenth Contest” in the comment area and all donations are tax deductible.
