2016 Black History theme, Hallowed Grounds: Sites of African American Memories.

BLACK HISTORY ESSAY CONTEST

2016 Black History information to assist in responding to the prompt:
The history of African Americans unfolds across the canvas of America, beginning before the
arrival of the Mayflower and continuing to the present. From port cities where Africans
disembarked from slave ships to the battle fields where their descendants fought for freedom,
from the colleges and universities where they pursued education to places where they created
communities during centuries of migration, the imprint of Americans of African descent is deeply
embedded in the narrative of the American past. These sites prompt us to remember and over
time became hallowed grounds.
The hallowed grounds of Miamis local history landmarks such as D.A. Dorseys home in
Overtown, on 9th Street and 2nd Avenue in Miami and Virginia Key Beach in Key Biscayne tell
the story of our struggle for equal citizenship. The imprint of Americans of African descent is
deeply embedded in the narrative of Miamis past.
BLACK HISTORY PROMPT:
As an activist that recognizes the power of knowledge to bring change within our youth, write to
convince your reader why its important for young people to know and tell the history of the
struggle of the past and how this knowledge can be used to address your community concerns.
Cite specific evidence; include details to support your conclusion.
PRIZES:
Separate first, second and third place prizes will be awarded in the middle school and senior
high school categories as follows:
1st place - $200 U.S Currency
2nd place - $100 U.S. Currency
3rd place - $50 U.S. Currency

African American History Advocate 2016 Black History Workshop at the Historic Lyric Theatre on
Friday, February 19, 2016

BLACK HISTORY ESSAY CONTEST GUIDELINES

Essays must be typed, with a maximum length of 500 words (2 pages), double spaced on
white paper, and stapled on the upper left hand corner. The prompt must be typed on the
cover sheet. The cover sheet must also include the students name, grade level, email
address, phone number (cell/home), and school. Failure to follow these guidelines will result
in disqualification.
All entries will be evaluated in their entirety with consideration being given to the following
four elements: focus, organization, support and conventions.
All entries are due by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, February 5, 2016.
Winners will be announced by Friday, February 12, 2016.
Awards will be presented at the Historic Lyric Theatre on Friday, February 19, 2016 .
The secondary categories are grades 6-8 and 9-12.
MAIL OR HAND DELIVER TO:
Dr. Sherrilyn Scott, Supervisor,
Department of Social Sciences
School Board Administration Building Annex, Room 326C
1501 N.E. 2nd Avenue, Miami Florida 33132
Mail Code #9626
Telephone: 305-995-1982