Office of Human Rights & Equity's Contests & Awards

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On behalf of the Howard County Office of Human Rights & Equity and the Howard County Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission, students and community members are invited to participate in several exciting contests.  All contest winners will receive a monetary prize and be listed on the County’s Office of Human Rights and Equity’s (OHRE) website. Winners will be recognized at the MLK Celebration on January 17, 2027, at Horowitz Center Smith Theatre, located at Howard Community College. 

2027 CONTEST THEME: "Let us build the future through stones of hope."

CONTESTS:

• Oratory Contest: Open to Middle and High School students, this contest challenges participants to write and deliver a speech about how they envision the future they intend to build. Discuss challenges, outcomes, and personal growth.
• Essay Contest: Also, for Middle and High School students, this competition invites them to articulate their thoughts and reflections about the theme and their plan to make positive changes in themselves, their schools, and their communities. Discuss challenges, outcomes and personal growth.
• Poster Contest: Open to Elementary, Middle, and High School students, the poster contest presents students with the opportunity to create an original piece of artwork that incorporates the theme and illustrates how to use kindness to make positive changes in themselves, schools, and communities.  To submit poster entries, scan or photograph the artwork and email it to mlk@howardcountymd.gov. Please do not send the original artwork. Winners will be notified about sending in the original piece. 

All essay, oratory and poster entrees must include an application form.  It must be signed by a parent or guardian if the student is under 18. Click HERE to download a copy.

• The Living the Dream Award: This prestigious honor is open to students, individuals and organizations that have significantly contributed to making Howard County a better place, embodying the principles that Dr. King championed. Self-nominations are accepted. The Living the Dream Award comes with a monetary prize and trophy. Click HERE  to nominate your candidate online. You may also download a fillable PDF application HERE and email it to us.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE AND INFORMATION:

All entries must be received by Friday, October 30th, 2026 at 5:00 PM EST

• Via Email: MLK@howardcountymd.gov
• For More Information: Call (410) 313-6430 or Email: MLK@howardcountymd.gov.