(Max Becherer/The Times-Picayune/The New Orleans Advocate via AP, File)
Inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech, Second Congressional District Congressman Troy Carter announced his first annual Black History Month Essay Contest. The contest is open to 10th and 11th graders throughout the district. Carter asks students to share their dreams for a “stronger, more inclusive America.”
“How does this world become a better place, a more perfect union,” Carter asked. “We want them to be as creative as they like. This is a perfect time to kick this off, during Black History Month.”
As racial tensions have heightened in the country, Carter sees some of the worst of America’s history repeating itself. He says that reaching young people is as important as ever in order for this country to truly start to realize Dr. King’s vision.
“We can do better,” he said. “We must do better. And if we’re going to do better we’re gonna do better by making sure that we expose our young people to the strength of our diversity and the value of not repeating history.”
Carter encourages students of all backgrounds to enter the contest and have their voices heard. He says the challenges that the nation faces can only be overcome with more participation, not less.
“We want the kind of participation that covers all spectrums,” he added. “We talk about how we’re going to do better in recognizing each other’s tolerances, and each other’s differences, and each other’s strengths. Well, the only way to do that is have everybody a part of the process.”
The winner of the contest will attend a special recognition ceremony in the nation’s capital, with the opportunity to meet other legislators as well.
For more information, click here.
Comments