2006 Press Releases
U.S. Embassy Extends Entry Deadline for the Martin Luther King Essay Competition
November 29, 2006
On January 16, 2007 the United States will observe its national holiday celebrating the birth and life of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As a Civil Rights activist, Dr. King championed principles of human dignity in his native United States and around the world. To honor him, and to strengthen public understanding of his impact in the United States and The Bahamas, the U.S. Embassy today announced an essay competition for public and private school students in grades 10 through 12 in New Providence and the Family Islands.
Students are asked to Write a 21st Century Bahamian “I Have A Dream” essay commenting on or reflecting Dr. Martin Luther King’s life, principles and teachings. The essay should demonstrate a clear understanding of Dr. King’s beliefs in racial equality non-violence, and social justice, and how they relate to modern Bahamian society.
The essay should be between 750 –100 words typewritten double-spaced. Entries will be judged on the following: originality, clarity of thought and organization, and grammar and spelling.
Applicants are asked to provide the Committee with their full name, telephone contact, e-mail and mailing addresses. The applicant’s name should appear on each page. All pages should be numbered. Applicants will be required to append a signed statement to the end of the essay attesting that it represents their original work.
Essays may be forwarded to one of the following addresses to be received on or before 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 8, 2007. MLKessay@state.gov; Martin Luther King Essay Committee; U.S. Embassy; P.O. Box N-8197, and facsimile: 242-328-3495
The winner will receive a desk top computer system. Prizes will be awarded by Ambassador John Darrell Rood to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners and will be announced on January 15, 2007, Dr. Martin Luther King Day.