Human Rights Commission Essay Contest

WINONA HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION

2023 ANNUAL ESSAY CONTEST

Entry Deadline is Thursday, February 23, 2023

 

This contest is for 5th through 12th grade students to engage their critical thinking skills and for them to share their ideas, concerns and articulate the reality of discrimination and civil rights violations that have a negative impact in the United States and in other countries.

Minnesota Statutes states: “It is the public policy of this state to secure for persons in this state, freedom from discrimination: 

  1. in employment because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, and age;
  2.  in housing and real property because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, and familial status;
  3.  in public accommodations because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, and disability;
  4.  in public services because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, and status with regard to public assistance; and
  5.  in education because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, and age.”

Essay Topic:

Juneteenth

  • Explain the historical context that led to Juneteenth.
  • What is Juneteenth and why is celebrating more important today than ever before?
  • Draw a connection between the Juneteenth celebration of freedom and other cultural celebrations of freedom or independence.
  • Reflect on why it is important that we continue to recognize and cultivate knowledge and appreciation or other cultural celebrations of freedom across the world.


Contest Rules: 

  1. All 9th through 12th grade students are eligible to participate by submitting one original entry.
  2. Essays may be from 1 – 3 pages in length, double-spaced.
  3. Scoring Rubric:essays will be rated on the following criteria:
    • Stayed on topic/answered the question
    • Used logical arguments to support their position
    • Demonstrated a depth of understanding about the topic
    • Provided original or creative ideas and solutions
  4. Complete and attach the official 2022 entry form as the last page of the essay.
  5. Entry Deadline is Thursday, February 23, 2023.
  6. Awards:                  
    • 1st Prize - $100           
    • 2nd Prize - $50            
    • 3rd Prize - $25

 Submit Essays To:       

US Mail:  Winona Human Rights Commission, PO Box 378, Winona, MN 55987   OR  Email:  mhmohan@ci.winona.mn.us

 *If sending electronically, accepted formats are Word (.doc, .docx) or .pdf

2023 Human Rights Commission Essay Entry Form