Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edwin M. Quezada today are launching the 2021 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Video Contest. This year’s theme for Black History Month is “The Black Family: Representation, Identity and Diversity” as it speaks to the diverse families in Yonkers.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. came from a strong family upbringing and his dedication to his family was a motivating factor behind his drive to push for social justice and freedom for all in America.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us many lessons over the last year – one being the need for strong, family support to help us weather the storm,” said Mayor Mike Spano. “During this time, many families have developed even stronger bonds, so I’m excited to learn from our young people how they believe their family dynamic provides the foundation they need to stay motivated and positive during these trying times.”
Mayor Spano will select one video from grades 1-4, one video from grades 5-8 and one video from grades 9-12 which asks students to submit a 3-5 minute video depicting how their family represents diversity and share how their strong family upbringing helped shape who they are today. The winning videos will be displayed on the City of Yonkers website and on all social media platforms for Yonkers residents to enjoy. Winners will be sent a certificate from Mayor Spano and their video will be shown at the City’s Annual Black History Month Virtual Celebration on Thursday, February 26, 2021 at 5:30 pm.
Dr. Edwin M. Quezada, Superintendent of Schools stated, “Throughout 2020, our Yonkers Public Schools family grew even stronger out of our mutual necessity to continue every students’ education. The bonds nurtured by our administrators, teachers and staff with both our students and their families are magnificent examples to inspire the students. Dr. King taught us by his actions to value family and education. Therefore, this year’s theme for the Mayor’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Video Contest is profoundly appropriate for our students.”
The contest is open to all primary and secondary Yonkers students; only one video may be submitted per student. Guidelines and specifications for the contest can be found at https://www.yonkersny.gov/mlk. Video submissions are due Friday, February 12, 2021 and may be emailed to contest@yonkersny.gov Winners will be selected by the Mayor’s African American Advisory Board and will be notified on Friday, February 19.
