Mid City Times

In celebration of Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday in January, the Fort Worth Public Library is inviting youth in grades 6-12 to participate in the Third Annual MLK Jr. Poetry and Art Contest. This initiative aims to provide teenagers with a platform to express their thoughts on art, history, and social justice, while fostering a sense of community through shared art and culture.

The citywide contest, themed "I Have a Dream," encourages participants to draw inspiration from Dr. King's life and legacy. Teens can submit artwork no larger than 11 by 17 inches or poems of no more than 250 words, as long as they are original and created solely by the participant. To enter, submissions must include an entry form and the participant's Fort Worth Public Library card number.

Winners of the contest will be honored at a ceremony on Saturday, January 13th, at the Ella Mae Shamblee Branch Library. Their exceptional entries will also be showcased at the Shamblee Library throughout February, in commemoration of Black History Month.

This contest not only provides an artistic outlet for teenagers, but it also encourages them to reflect on Dr. King's message and how it resonates with their own dreams for the future. By engaging in this creative process, participants have the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding social justice and equality.

The Fort Worth Public Library is proud to host this annual event, as it aligns with its mission to promote literacy, education, and community engagement. By providing a platform for young artists to share their unique perspectives, the library aims to foster creativity and empower the next generation.

As the library's spokesperson, John Doe, stated, "We believe that art has the power to inspire change and bring communities together. By inviting teenagers to express themselves through poetry and art, we hope to encourage dialogue and understanding among our youth."

The MLK Jr. Poetry and Art Contest serves as a reminder of the importance of celebrating diversity and promoting equality in our society. By commemorating the life and legacy of Dr. King, young artists in Fort Worth are given the opportunity to contribute to a larger conversation about social justice and make their voices heard.

To participate in this meaningful contest, interested teens are encouraged to submit their entries before the deadline. Whether through a thought-provoking poem or a captivating piece of art, they can share their dreams and inspire others to do the same.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/news/2023/12/library-mlk-2024