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This year’s contest theme is "Challenging Yourself & Those Around You," and asks students to reflect on what they can do for themselves and their peers to reach their full potential.
“Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s message, ideals, and beliefs are as prominent today as it was since the days of some of the greatest movements for equality and social change. The very fundamental beliefs that every man and woman despite their differences are all capable of greatness is a true testament to what Dr. King preached, it just takes someone or something to uncover that untapped potential,” said Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano.
Spano will select three poems from grades 1-2, 3-4 and 5-6, and two videos from grades 7-8 and 9-12. Winning poems and videos will be displayed at City Hall and online for Yonkers residents to enjoy.
Winners will be presented a certificate from Spano and will be asked to present their work at the City’s Annual Black History Month Celebration at City Hall on Tuesday, Feb. 9, at 5:30 p.m.
“The magnificent work of Dr. King is as important and relevant today as it was so many years ago,” said Dr. Edwin M. Quezada, superintendent of Schools. “Our children need to learn about and emulate Dr. King’s courage and dreams, and we must encourage them to become an upstander and not a bystander. This contest is one more opportunity for our children to learn about and embrace the wisdom of exceptional leaders. I encourage our students to participate and I look forward to hearing and seeing the winners’ interpretations.”
The contest is open to all primary and secondary Yonkers students; only one poem/video may be submitted per student. Guidelines and specifications for the contest can be found at www.yonkersny.gov/mlk.
Poem and video submissions are due Jan. 20, and may be emailed to contest@yonkersny.gov, dropped off to the Mayor’s Office, or by mail to MLK, Jr. Poem Contest, Mayor’s Office, City Hall, 2nd Floor, 40 South Broadway, Yonkers, NY 10701. Winners will be notified on Jan. 27.
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