Ocoee celebrating Black History Month with essay contest

In recognition of Black History Month, the city of Ocoee is holding its 20th Annual Black History Month Essay Contest. The competition is open to fifth-grade students who attend Ocoee schools.

The theme for the essay contest is “100 Years of Unity.” Writers should be able to explain the following: As the city reflects on the past century, what is your vision for Ocoee and America for the next 100 years? How can you promote and encourage diversity and unity in your community?

The grand-prize winner will receive a $200 Best Buy gift card, first-place winners will earn a $100 gift card, second-place winners will be awarded a $50 gift card, and third-place winners will receive a $25 gift card. All winners will receive certificates of recognition and gift bags with city promotional items. The essay winners will be recognized at the Ocoee City Commission meeting March 4 at 6:15 p.m. The meeting will be broadcast on Ocoee TV Spectrum Channel 493 and a livestream at ocoee.org/OcoeeTV.

Ocoee TV is airing programs that highlight significant people and events from African-American history. The city’s 17th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Unity Parade and Celebration is also airing and can be viewed on Ocoee TV’s YouTube channel at ocoee.org/mlk. Biographical portraits of notable black Americans are displayed at City Hall.

For more information, call (407) 905-3100.