TEEN VOICES FOR RACIAL JUSTICE ESSAY CONTEST

Never before in our history have teenagers been faced with such overwhelming uncertainty, on so many different fronts. As a young adult, you are coming of age in a world gripped by turmoil. This reality is not your doing, nonetheless you find yourself in a fight to reverse generations of mistakes and centuries of oppression.

Racism is a burden that hinders every aspect of society. It is likely that you’ve witnessed it at school, on the news or scrolling through your timeline, or maybe you’ve experienced it directly. You also understand it’s no longer enough simply to not be racist; instead, we as Oregonians must be actively anti-racist and stop hiding behind our states “progressive” reputation. Neither is it sufficient to be colorblind; because true equality means recognizing every shade, celebrating what makes us different, while ensuring that those qualities do not lead to anything less than actual equality. With the Teen Voices for Racial Justice Essay Contest, Portland Monthly & Cambia Health Solutions call to action those of you who do not remain on the sidelines. Perhaps you pass out fliers or march alongside fellow activists, shouting the simple truth that Black Lives Matter. But you don’t stop there, and we want to know what’s next.

What is your vision for racial justice? In the face of adversity, how do you commit yourself to bringing about real change? How are you driving the conversation, within your family, around your friends and throughout your community? Where have you seen success, and what are some setbacks you have encountered? We want to read your ideas and hear your stories. Tell us about the innovative ways you are pushing forward, developing your allyship or taking a stand.

Teens (13-19 years old) living in Oregon or the greater Portland-Vancouver Metro area, are invited to submit an essay of no more than 800 words (including the title) on their vision for racial justice. ​Entry deadline is August 31st.

Two winners will be selected​

• Two teen writers will see their essays published in Portland Monthly’s Winter Issue
• Cambia will also donate $1,000 toward a nonprofit of each winner’s choice
• Winners receive an iPad and recognition at several virtual events

Essays will be judged on the following criteria: 

1. Voice: how individual and clear is the voice in this essay? 1-7
2. Originality: how original are the ideas? 1-7
3. Style: How well written is the essay? 1-6
   Total points possible: 20