Introducing the Dr. Maya Angelou Essay Writing Contest

Earlier this academic year, the Dr. Maya Angelou Essay Contest was introduced with the sponsorship of Mr. Guy Johnson and in partnership with the Oakland Unified School District(OUSD). Not only will the participating High school seniors have an opportunity to place and receive cash prizes up to $5,000, but the students with the top essays will become published authors! They will be published in an anthology and celebrated at an upcoming book launch at a local bookstore. The Award Ceremony is open to the public. This event includes celebrity guest speakers, exceptional local talent and advocates for education. Please attend the Award Ceremony on Friday, March 6th at 6 p.m.

La Escuelita Elementary School
Great Room
1050 2nd Avenue Oakland, CA

Watch Mr. Johnson share more on the contest, the support of Ms. Marsha Rhynes, and express the message behind this year’s contest theme “We Must Not Be Defeated”: https://www.ktvu.com/video/656942

Participating 2020 Graduates at the OUSD public schools were chosen for this contest because of Dr. Angelou’s deep roots in Oakland and the Bay area. Dr. Maya Angelou moved to Oakland in 1940 to live with her mother, brother, and grandmother. Mr. Johnson and his wife still reside in the historic Bay area and they continue to uplift the work of Dr. Angelou.

Participating seniors were given this essay writing prompt:
Write a reflective and scholarly personal narrative sharing how you as a young person have felt marginalized, disenfranchised, or stereotyped by prejudice, racism, sexism, and injustice in your community. What is the collective victory for our community when young people overcome these challenges and become stronger by refusing to be defined by difficulties?