Annual Black History Month essay contest to return to Bloomington

Image courtesy of Community Resources for Justice

NORMAL, Ill. – The Bloomington Human Relations Commission is renewing their annual Black History Month Essay contest for the month of February.

The annual essay contest based in Bloomington is for grade school students and aims for writers to dive into topics of black history and important historical figures’ individual contributions. Bloomington Community Relations Manager Gregory Wilson explained the parameters for the contest and why they hold it. 

“I would say being informative, being detailed and the individual’s background goes a long way when they go to judge,” Wilson said.

First, second and third place winners who follow the criteria of a winning essay for their age range can win gift cards between $50 to $150 as the prize. Students are encouraged to learn about history and build upon their existing skills.

“I do think even in those younger grades, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, it kind of helps build, for one, just essay writing skills, which we know are important later in life,” Wilson said.

Black History month is a tradition that was officially recognized in 1976 and has continued since then. The month-long celebration aims to honor the events and the people who championed for African American rights and freedoms throughout history.

“I think most importantly it’s in February to coincide with Black History Month,” Wilson said. “To me it just allows for the exploration of an African American that has contributed to America.” Wilson said.

All students within the age range of 4th-12th are eligible to participate and explore the topics at hand. There are different criteria for each age range as well as an application to fill out.