American Me “Voices of Our Youth” essay contest

American Me “Voices of Our Youth” essay contest

Moses Miller, founder of Mind Candy, LLC, developed the idea for American Me “Voices of Our Youth”, after reading several disturbing studies focused on literacy rates amongst African-American and Hispanic Students in the United States . There were several alarming details, but two facts resonated deeply: The 12th grade reading scores of African American males were significantly lower than men and women across every racial and ethnic group; on average, African-American and Hispanic 12th graders read at the same level as white eighth graders; and 58% of African American Males in the United States do not graduate from high school.

Literacy experts have noted that the ability to read and write could be the most accurate predictor of success in life. The American Me “Voices of our youth” is focused on the promotion of reading and effective writing amongst African-American and Hispanic youth. The first project is directly related to the cultivation of writing skills.

Between May 1st and June 30th 2007, Mind Candy will be sponsoring an essay writing contest for aspiring African American and Hispanic youths from the ages of fifteen to eighteen, in an effort to stimulate creativity and offer young aspiring writers increased opportunities for exposure.

Each youth that wishes to participate will be tasked with writing a 750 to 1000 word essay or short story, descriptively capturing the experiences, challenges and the realities they face as youths growing up in America. Participating authors may write from their own experiences or about the experience of another person or a fictional character.

A panel consisting of published authors, book clubs and book store owners has been enlisted to assist with judging the submissions.

Essays from all finalists will be featured on several participating websites, while the winner’s essay will also be published in the second edition of Moses Miller’s critically acclaimed debut novel Nan : The Trifling Times of Nathan Jones.
Submissions will be accepted between May 1st and June 30th.
Contestants must be between the ages of 15 and 18
For more information visit MindCandyMedia.com