Fred B. Benjamin Peace Writing Contest

Anne Arundel Peace Action coordinates an annual statewide peace writing contest for Maryland middle school students. The contest has been conducted for 11 consecutive years. It is open to all 7th and 8th grade students enrolled in public or private schools in Maryland and to equivalent home-schooled students. Contest winners are honored at a special ceremony (as the picture shows) and receive a total of $850 in prizes as well as a framed certificate. Approximately 2,500 students have participated in the contest since it began. Entries are now being accepted for the 2007 contest. Students must write up to 1,200 words on the following topic: “Do some reading about the life and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, the major political and spiritual leader of the independence movement in India. Then write a dialogue that imagines a conversation that Gandhi might have with President Bush.” Entries should be double-spaced on a word processor or typewriter. The entry must be accompanied by a separate cover sheet including the student’s name, address and phone number or e-mail address; school’s name, address and phone number; and the name of the teacher sponsor if applicable. Four cash prizes will be awarded: $350 for first place, $250 for second place, $150 for third place, and $100 for fourth place. The winners will be honored at a special ceremony, although attendance is not required to receive an award. Essays and accompanying materials must be postmarked no later than May 15, 2007 and mailed to Fred B. Benjamin Peace Writing Contest, 310 Riverview Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21403-3328.