In celebration of Black History Month, Congresswoman LaMonica McIver is pleased to announce her Black History Month Essay Contest. This contest is open to high school students across New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District.
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the first Black History Week, which later expanded to the entire month of February–Black History Month. In his book Where Do We Go from Here: In Chaos or Community?, Martin Luther King Jr. analyzes the current state of the United States of America, a decade after the Civil Rights Movement. Paying homage to that important question, this year's essay submissions should focus on the current state of Black History after one century of recognition, and what you see for the future of Black History in years to come.
We welcome creative essay formats so long as they abide by the length requirements (see below) and are excited to see what you write.
Contest Details:
- Essay Topic: “100 Years of Black History Recognition - Where do we go from here?” Examine the current state of Black History in America and discuss the path forward for future generations.
- Word Count: Between 1000 and 1200 words
- Deadline: Monday, February 23, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
- Submission: Please email your essay to Imani.Hamm@mail.house.gov by the February 23 deadline.
Submission Guidelines:
Include the following contact information at the top of your essay:
- Full Name
- School
- Grade
- Age
- Email Address
- Phone Number
- Guardian Email Address
- Guardian Email Phone Number
Prizes & Recognition:
There will be five winning essays selected from across the district, and each winner will receive a certificate of recognition and special prize from Congresswoman McIver in honor of their achievement.