The 2021 Black History Month’s Essay Contest is open to all Oakdale High students in grades nine to 12th.
To participate write an essay on one of the following topics:
•Freedom Riders
•Black Wall Stret
•The Little Rock 9
•Buffalo Soldiers
The essay must be a minimum of 500 words, typed and submitted via email to beattra@gmail.com no later than Monday, February 15, 2021. Essays will be judged on research, creativity and quality of writing.
Prizes will be presented to the winners. The first place winner will receive a Kindle Fire HD. Second place will be a $50 gift card, and third place is a $25 card.
Winners will be announced in the Oakdale Journal on Thursday, February 25, 2021.
The essay is sponsored by the Donald R. Solomon Sr. Community Heroes Tribute. His daughter, Beattra Wilson, an organizer of this event, said this contest is being held to further inspire and motivate the youth of Oakdale and support development of strong community leaders.
Solomon was a native of Oakdale and alumni of Oakdale High School. He believed in supporting his community. He was a bus driver and volunteer firefighter in Oakdale.
Wilson said they continue to do some type of outreach in the community for her father. This is the first year for an essay contest. Last year they brought toys and snacks to children in Headstart.
“We are continuing what he would do,” she said.
