YOUTH SPEAKING THEIR TRUTH
their way in pursuit of a better WORLD. $2,000 FIRST PRIZE
Step 1 – Select an American Activist
Step 2 – Check out the Rules
Step 3 – REGISTER
“WE MUST SPEAK WITH ALL THE HUMILITY THAT IS APPROPRIATE TO OUR LIMITED VISION, BUT WE MUST SPEAK.”
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
MLK Voice 4 Youth
MLK Voice 4 Youth
MLK Voice 4 Youth
MLK Voice 4 Youth is a spoken word contest amplifying youth voices through respect, understanding, and compassion. Contestants have creative freedom to share how their chosen American Activist inspires them to speak up for societal change. In 2025, MLK VOICE 4 YOUTH will celebrate its 9th year.
Contest Rules
MLK Voice 4 Youth
MLK Voice 4 Youth
Contestants, grades 7 – 12, choose their activist hero from a list of American activists, past and present, whose leadership and actions reflect Dr. King's principles for change. The message must be original, authored, composed, and performed by the student(s).
Prizes
MLK Voice 4 Youth
Prizes
First prize $2,000; second prize $1,000; third prize, $500; and $250 to the top junior high student. Semifinalists receive service hours and a certificate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please reach us at info@mlkvoice4youth.org if you cannot find an answer to your question.
No, you have until by 5 PM, January 15, 2025 to submit your video. Video links submitted after you register for the contest should be sent to info@mlkvoice4youth.org
Yes, to a maximum of 5. You have creative freedom and creativity is encouraged. If you place in the top 3, you will need to share the cash prize with your colleagues.
There are ways contestants may and may not use AI. If contestants wish to use AI, please refer to the section on the rules page for ways contestants MAY and MAY NOT use AI to prepare their presentation for MLK VOICE 4 YOUTH 2025.
"I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for the opportunity to speak at the MLK Voice 4 Youth. I am grateful to you & your team for not only allowing me to share my story but also for providing me with a platform that has propelled me to this next chapter in my life."
Boluwatife Aminu, 2023 2nd Prize Winner
ABOUT MLK VOICE 4 YOUTH
- A platform for youth speaking up in pursuit of change.
- 1st Prize $2,000; 2nd Prize $1,000; 3rd Prize $500
- $250 - Junior high school contestant with top score.
- A certificate of participation, 3 service hours awarded to all semifinalists.
- Contestants are free to choose their activist hero, past or present, whose leadership and actions reflect Dr. King's legacy and inspires them to act for change.
- Contestants have creative freedom to convey their message.
- Registration opens September 21, Peace Day
VISION/MISSION
- To empower, inform, and engage youth voices that promote a just, inclusive, and equitable society.
- To provide youth opportunities to be heard.
- To develop and hone 21st-century skills that will serve them personally, academically, and professionally in their future endeavors.
VALUES
- Guided by Dr. King’s legacy and change through nonviolence, youth when given a safe space to express their views are inspired to act for social change.
- Youth are empowered when they discover their voices can make a difference.
- Amplify youth voices through respect, understanding, and compassion.
MLK VOICE 4 YOUTH
505 E. Buck Road, Wilmington, DE 19807
Copyright © 2024 MLK VOICE 4 YOUTH - All Rights Reserved.