By Mona Lisa Tucker/south news editor
A Remembering the Dream tribute was held on South Campus to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.
The event’s central focus was on an art and essay contest in which 15 students from nine Fort Worth area schools competed. Categories included elementary, middle and high schools.
Mishuna MacDonald with student development services said art instructor Joshua Goode judged the artwork.
Justin Gladney/The Collegian
“We also had some individuals out of the library, Jennifer Jackson that helped with grading the essays,” MacDonald said. “The winners were chosen, and we contacted the schools to let them know that these are the ones that were recognized. It was really a great collaboration with the afterschool program because the students were able to connect with the movement of Martin Luther King Jr. and also write about their feelings.”
MacDonald is passionate about the issue of unity and helping students understand why they have the opportunities afforded to them today.
During the event, the audience viewed a video portion of the 1963 March on Washington in which King gave his historic “I Have a Dream” speech.
“He had a non-violent message for social change,” MacDonald said. “He was adamant about it and that the students don’t forget it. The message still rings unity.”
Manager of marketing communications Gary Offutt, who took video for TCC’s website, said he enjoyed the program.
“I’m glad that I came here,” he said. “Just to see that the dream continues and to see the kids involved and to know that his work still goes on was moving.”
First-place winners received cash prizes. Second- and third-place winners were given certificates.
All contestants received ribbons in recognition of their work.
Leonard Middle School student Makayla Washington won for her essay.
“It makes me feel like I’ve actually done something pretty good,” she said.
Seminary Hills Elementary School student Crystal Mijangos-Lopez won first prize in her category.
“I like Martin Luther King. He’s my favorite,” she said.
Leonard Middle School student Pierce Dedrick said he worked hard on his portrait of King and is glad he won something.
He plans on using the “I Have a Dream” message as a catalyst to move forward and accomplish his goals.
“It’s important and useful and changed our world,” he said.
Student Gabriel Young, who won first place in his category, said he plans to go college and become a business owner. He is also from Leonard Middle School.
His mother, Anita Young, said she is proud of Gabriel and encourages all students to use King’s message to acquire their dreams.
