Ridgeland Secondary Academy of Excellence
2025 Black History Month Essay Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of
Nonviolence365
First Place Winner: $75.00 (per category)
Second Place Winner: $50.00 (per category)
Third Place Winner: $25.00 (per category)
Submission Deadline: February 26 to 28, 2025 by 12:00 P.M.
“Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community?” The MLK Center in Atlanta echoes this
message with “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of
Nonviolence365.” This mission emphasizes the importance of supporting individuals in their
pursuit of a meaningful and impactful commitment to working together, grounded in love and
nonviolence.
The founding promises of America—freedom, equality, and justice for all—and the nation’s
failure to fully uphold these promises, particularly for Black Americans, highlight the moral
responsibility of individuals to challenge unjust laws and take direct action rather than waiting
indefinitely for justice.
Among the notable figures often spotlighted during Black History Month are Rev. Dr. Martin
Luther King Jr., Thurgood Marshall, Mae Jemison, and former President Barack Obama. In 2025,
Black History Month continues to foster real-time discussions and community efforts to
increase activities and events that encourage the recognition and challenge of injustice.
Essay Writing Guidelines
1. Select the prompt that interests you most.
2. Write an engaging, thought-provoking, and well-developed essay.
3. Type your essay in a 12-point font using a clear and readable writing style.
4. Email your essay to Mrs.Velayuthan by 12 p.m. on February 26 to 28, 2025.