On Jan. 15, Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and Superintendent of Schools Aníbal Soler, Jr. launched the 2025 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Poem/Essay Contest. This year’s theme, African Americans and Labor, focuses on the impact of work on the experience of African Americans, ranging from the past agricultural labor of enslaved Africans to today’s African American professionals providing leadership as corporate executives and entrepreneurs.
“This year’s theme resonates with the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who championed the dignity of labor and the fight for economic justice,” said Mayor Mike Spano. “As we reflect on these contributions, let us honor the past and continue to strive for a future where equality and opportunity are accessible to all.”
Mayor Spano and his African American Advisory Board will select one poem from grades 1-4, one poem from grades 5-8 and one essay from grades 9-12. The winning poems and essay will be displayed at Yonkers City Hall and online for Yonkers residents to enjoy. Winners will be presented a certificate from Mayor Spano and will be asked to present their work at the City’s Annual Black History Month Celebration at Yonkers City Hall on Friday, February 28, 2025 at 6:00 pm.
“This annual contest is a testament to the enduring legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., whose vision of justice, equality, and understanding continues to inspire us all,” noted Superintendent of SchoolsAníbal Soler, Jr. “By reflecting on this year’s theme, our students honor the contributions of African Americans throughout history while embracing Dr. King’s dream for a future rooted in tolerance, acceptance, and the celebration of our shared humanity. I strongly encourage our students to participate to ensure that Dr. King’s dream lives on through their voices and actions for generations to come.”
The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Poem/Essay Contest is open to all primary and secondary Yonkers students; only one poem and essay may be submitted per student. Guidelines and specifications for the contest can be found at https://www.yonkersny.gov/mlk.
Poems and essay submissions are due Friday, February 14, 2025 and may be emailed to contest@yonkersny.gov or sent by mail to Mayor’s Office (Attention: Dwanita Crosby), Yonkers City Hall, 2nd Floor, 40 South Broadway, Yonkers, NY 10701. Winners will be selected by the Mayor’s African American Advisory Board and will be notified on Friday, February 21st. For questions regarding the poem/essay contest email Dwanita Crosby at dwanita.crosby@yonkersny.gov.
