Racial Justice Essay Contest Open to Washington County Students

At least $5,000 in scholarships will be awarded to winning high school participants.

Racial Justice Essay Contest
Photo Courtesy: Washington County Community Remembrance Project

Submissions are now being accepted for the Equal Justice Initiative’s 2021 Racial Justice Essay Contest. The Washington County Community Remembrance Project is the local host of the contest, which is funded in part by the Black History Commission of Arkansas.

EJI is providing scholarship prizes totaling at least $5,000 for winning participants. The competition is open to 9th through 12th grade students attending public high school in Washington County. Essays will be accepted through April 27.

Students are asked to examine the history of the topic of racial injustice and discuss its legacy today. Essays should explain the chosen topic using specific historical events, explore how the injustice persists and imagine solutions for a future free from racial injustice, according to the organization’s website. Students are encouraged to reflect on how the topic impacts their own lives and communities.

The Washington County Community Remembrance Project is partnering with the Fayetteville Public Library to host a virtual workshop for interested students. The workshop will include an overview of the essay contest, access to resources for writing, and feedback and contacts as applicants make progress on their essays.

All potential applicants and the adults in their lives are welcome to attend the virtual workshop, which is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Jan. 27. A recording of this event will be provided. Registration is required. More information is available here