Calling all movers and shakers age 14-18: The Olde City-located National Liberty Museum announced it's hosting a national contest, funded by the John Templeton Foundation, that calls upon high school students across the country to submit an essay and video-speech tied to the themes of individual freedom, inspired by the Golden Globe-winning film, "Selma."
One reason National Liberty Museum was handpicked to spearhead the initiative, Director of Development Peggy Sweeney told PhillyVoice.com, is the museum's location in Philadelphia and unique focus on individual liberties that have particular resonance right here, right now.
"I think Philadelphia is the perfect example of a city grappling with the issues that the movie illustrates, issues of individual rights and the importance of empowering young people to be responsible leaders and citizens," Sweeney said. "And I think the reason we were picked as the ideal org to host this national contest is because, really, we're the only museum in the country dedicated to advancing the concept of liberty by teaching kids good character and leadership."
PhillyVoice.com reported earlier this week that local businesses have underwritten a program that allows Philly students to see the film for free at select theaters. Sweeney said the program's appearance was a complete -- but pleasant -- surprise.
"I think 'Selma' is touching a cord in the minds of people of all ages right now, so I'm not at all surprised that this initiative coincidentally happened at the same time," she said. "And hopefully, [students will] see the movie and be inspired to enter our contest."
The contest poses the following essay question to students:
"Inspired by the movie 'Selma,' what do you think needs to be done today to protect individual freedom and self-determination? What are you doing, or what can you do, to peacefully advance those rights in the spirit of Martin Luther King Jr. and others?"
So far, said Sweeney, the contest has drawn the attention of celebrities like U2's Bono, Norman Lear and (as seen below) John Legend.
As a museum known for advancing individual liberties and historical storytelling, Sweeney made sure to emphasize that Luther King Jr. himself was 15 when he won an essay contest, penning an essay that echoed sentiments he'd later share in his "I Have a Dream Speech." The contest draws on that theme, and Sweeney insists that young people -- in Philadelphia and elsewhere -- are capable of creating their own MLK moments.
"We've been working with kids for 15 years here, and in that time we've observed that kids are looking for an opportunity to self-express in constructive ways, and when you give them that window, they rise to the occasion. It's amazing the wisdom they have to share," she said. "Sometimes, I don't think we give young people enough credit for how seriously they're thinking about these issues that effect us collectively."
Students interested in participating can see the official site for submission details; the deadline for entry is Jan. 30. Ten essays will be highlighted online in March, she said, and the winner will receive $5,000 and an all-expenses-paid trip to the National Liberty Museum for an awards ceremony, to be held on April 21.