Black History Month Writing Contest

All Louisiana students in grades 1-12 are invited to participate in a   writing contest to commemorate and celebrate Black  History Month and the contributions of African American in the 

development of the state of Louisiana. 

 

This year’s theme is “Perseverance.” 

 

African Americans were resilient and determined to obtain  careers in politics.  Following the ending of the Civil War  many African Americans were elected to political offices.

 

In 1872, Pinckney Benton Stewart  Pinchback became the first African American governor of Louisiana and the United States.  Pinchback served as acting  governor of Louisiana  thirty-five days after the state legislature impeached  Governor Henry Clay Warmoth. Voters elected Pinchback to the United States  Congress twice, but he lost his seat both times when challenged by his opponents.   Following Reconstruction, he earned a law degree at Straight University,  and accepted a  presidential  appointment as surveyor of customs in  New Orleans.

Essay Topic:  In 200– 300 words explain what inspired P. B. S. Pinchback  to   persevere in spite of  the challenges he faced in politics?

Deadline:         January 23, 2009,  5:00pm

Entry Form

 

Prize List

 

The winner will be notified by February 1, 2009.  

Mail or fax completed essay and entry form to:

Louisiana State Museum—Education Department

Black History  Month Essay Contest

751 Chartres Street , New Orleans, LA  70116

Fax number:  504-568-4995

First, second, and third place essay winners will be selected.  Winners will be recognized at a program at the Louisiana State Museum by Southern University at New Orleans Center for         African and African American Studies and Amistad Research Center.  First place essay winner will also have the opportunity to read his/her essay aloud during Louisiana State Museum and Audubon Nature Institute Black History Month programs. The first place winner will receive a book store gift certificate valued at $100, tickets to Audubon Nature Institute facilities, Amistad       Sesquicentennial poster & more.  Second and third place runners-up will receive consolation prizes from the Amistad Research Center.  For more  information  contact the Education Department at 504-568-7056 or go to the museum website at http://lsm.crt.state.la.us.

Inspire..Educate..Preserve