In order to increase awareness and promote understanding in the arenas of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and gender-identity, TEAM Westport and The Westport Library are co-sponsoring the Eighth Annual Teen Diversity Essay Contest for students in grades 9, 10, 11, and 12 who attend Staples High School or another school in Westport, or reside in Westport and attend school elsewhere. Last year’s TEAM Westport contest focused on stereotypes. This year’s challenge asks you to focus on “Black Lives Matter.”
“The statement “Black Lives Matter” has become politicized in our country. In 1000 words or fewer, describe your own understanding of the statement. Consider why conversations about race are often so emotionally charged. Given that reality, what suggestions do you have for building both equity and equality in our schools, community and country?”
Essays are due no later than Feb. 26, 2021.
Winners will be announced at a ceremony at the Westport Library on April 5, 2021. At the discretion of the judges up to three cash prizes will be awarded subject to the volume and caliber of entries received. The first prize is $1,000, second prize is $750, and third prize is $500.
