Juneteenth Essay Contest
“Juneteenth 160 Together We Rise” is the theme for the 36th Annual Juneteenth Freedom & Heritage Festival. Juneteenth (June 19th) is the oldest celebration marking the end of slavery in the United States and was first celebrated in Galveston, Texas. Juneteenth became the newest Utah State holiday in March 2022.
Project Success Coalition and our Utah Juneteenth committee are honored to be part of the national and local movement to promote Juneteenth and to build upon the extraordinary achievements of people of the African Diaspora. The Juneteenth Festival brings communities together from all walks of life to honor our history, culture, and achievements while inspiring us to continue moving forward. We commemorate the richness of the people of the African Diaspora and embrace the promise of a brighter future for all.
Entry Categories
This year’s Juneteenth Essay Contest is divided into three categories: elementary, middle, and high school. Please click on the appropriate category below for more information and to apply.
We’re extending a special invitation for your K–5th grader to participate in our 36th Annual Utah Juneteenth Essay/Spoken Word Contest. Our contest is open to kindergarten through 5th grade students of African/African American heritage. Below is the breakdown of word limits for each grade level for the essay portion of the contest. If you decide to do a spoken word piece, it must be typed out and no longer than 3 minutes. Winners will be selected based on their understanding of the theme, creativity and expression, effort, and presentation.
| Grade Level | # of Words |
|---|---|
|
Kindergarten |
10-20 words |
|
1st Grade |
20-30 words |
|
2nd Grade |
30-40 words |
|
3rd Grade |
40-50 words |
|
4th Grade |
50-60 words |
|
5th Grade |
60-100 words |
The deadline for receiving the completed application and essay is June 8, 2025.
Prizes:
1st Place: $250
2nd Place: $150
3rd Place: $100
Essay/Spoken Word Prompt:
The theme for the 2025 Juneteenth Contest is “Juneteenth 160 Years: Together We Rise”.
Essay topic: “Why is Black History Important to Me?”
Submit your Essay
Our middle school Juneteenth Essay/Spoken Word Contest is open to students in grades 6–8 of African/African American heritage. As a 6th–8th grade student, you may choose to complete an essay or perform a spoken word piece.
Winners will be selected based on:
Essay: Understanding of the theme, organization and clarity, use of examples, grammar and mechanics.
Spoken Word: Personal attributes that reflect your emotions, opinions, and attitude.
Deadline:
The deadline for receiving the completed application and essay or spoken word piece is June 8, 2025.
Prizes:
First Place: $250
Second Place: $150
Submission Guidelines:
Photo: Please attach a recent photograph of yourself along with your application.
Essay: Must be typed and no longer than 300 words.
Spoken Word: Must be typed out and no longer than 3 minutes for the oral presentation.
Theme for 2025 Contest:
“Juneteenth 160 Years: Together We Rise”
Prompt:
Describe a Black figure that you admire and explain why their work and life are important to you. How do they inspire you?
Important Note for Students:
This essay or spoken word piece should reflect your personal thoughts and creativity. We believe in your abilities and are excited to see your original work. If your submission is determined to be AI-generated, your packet will be immediately rejected and you will be disqualified from the contest.
Completed Application Packet Must Include:
This application form
Your essay or spoken word piece
A photo of yourself
Submit Your Essay
For High School Students of African or African American Heritage
Students in grades 9 through 12 are invited to participate in this year’s Juneteenth Essay and Spoken Word Contest. You may choose to submit either a written essay or a spoken word piece.
2025 Contest Theme
“Juneteenth 160 Years: Together We Rise”
Throughout history, Black voices have educated, inspired, and motivated people to bring about meaningful change.
Essay Prompt:
How can you use the power of your voice to educate, inspire, and motivate change in our world today?
Evaluation Criteria
Essay Submissions
Critical analysis
Structure and coherence
Evidence and support
Language and style
Spoken Word Submissions
Emotional expression
Clarity of opinion
Personal presence and attitude
Prizes
First Place: $600
Second Place: $300
Submission Deadline
All entries must be received by June 8, 2025.
Submission Guidelines
Essay
Typed
Maximum 600 words (approximately 2 pages)
Spoken Word
Typed transcript of the piece
Maximum 3 minutes for the oral presentation
Photo
Include a recent photograph of yourself
Completed Application Packet Must Include
Completed application form
Essay or spoken word piece
Recent photo
Important Note
We want to hear your voice. Submissions should reflect your original ideas and creativity. If your entry is found to be AI-generated, it will be disqualified and your application will not be accepted.
Submit Your Essay
If you have any questions, please contact:
Mr. Michael Adams at (801) 637-6242 or Dr. Claustina Mahon-Reynolds at (435) 640-6600.