MLK Essay Contest Open To Napa County Youth

NAPA COUNTY, CA — Middle and high school students in Napa County are invited to submit entries for the 2024 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Contest held by the Napa County Library, Congregation Beth Shalom, CanDo, AAUW – Napa Branch, Napa County Office of Education and League of Women Voters of Napa County.

Essay Prompt

"Philanthropy is commendable, but it must not cause the philanthropist to overlook the circumstances of economic injustice which make philanthropy necessary." (Martin Luther King, Jr., "Strength to Love" 1963)

What does philanthropy look like in the modern age? Do "YouTube philanthropists" like MrBeast help to shine a light on issues in society, or do they further illustrate the differences between the "haves and have nots"? What are your thoughts about how Martin Luther King, Jr.'s speeches and writings can be used to ensure that economic injustice is addressed to build a nation where everyone has the opportunity to succeed?

Contest Rules

Entries should be limited to no more than 600 words. All entries must include the student’s name, grade level, school and contact phone number. All entries must be received by Friday, Feb. 9.
Entries will be judged on thoughtfulness, clarity, content and adherence to length.

Prizes Sponsored By Friends Of Napa Library

• One winner from each grade level will receive a $50 gift card
• Overall winner: $150 grand prize

Submit Entries To

library@countyofnapa.org