THE Northern Marianas Humanities Council is now accepting submissions for its third annual My Marianas Writing Contest.
According to the council’s website, the contest is open to all high school students in public and private CNMI high schools. It aims to “recognize the diverse backgrounds within the Northern Marianas Islands while enhancing literacy and writing skills through a theme that connects individuals who have ties with the Marianas.”
This year’s theme is “Through Generations.” Entries should be emailed to info@nmhcouncil.org on or before April 15, 2024.
First prize is $500; second prize is $400; and third prize is $300.
The council said contestants should reflect on “how cultural heritage, traditions, values and practices endure through ever-changing influences.”
“This year’s theme urges writers to reflect on their cultural practices while highlighting the resilience of their cultural identity against globalization and technology,” the council added.
Entries should be double spaced, and three to five pages. The official scoring rubric can be found at 2023-The-Official-My-Marianas-Writing-Contest-Scoring-Rubric-Sheet1/.
Essays should be written using a size 12 font, such as Times New Roman or a similar style.
Submissions should be personal narrative essays.
The council has posted an essay guideline on its website. It states that essays should “adeptly employ imagery to vividly depict a value, practice, or tradition from your cultural background.”
The essays should “explain how this custom has been transmitted through generations within your family, and articulate your understanding or belief regarding its enduring significance amidst changing societal influences.”
For high school students interested in assistance writing their essays, the council has scheduled a writer’s workshop on March 23, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at its Springs Plaza office in Gualo Rai next to Bank of Hawaii. Register at nmhcouncil.org/writersworkshop/.
The workshop facilitator will help students brainstorm and write their drafts within the contest guidelines.