Annual MLK Oratorical Contest
Living the Dream’s Annual MLK Oratorical Contest is a cherished tradition that honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by uplifting students’ voices through oral, musical, artistic, and visual presentations.
RPS Students Give Voice to King’s legacys
Winners of the MLK Jr. Oratorical Contest at Virginia Union University on Saturday, Jan. 24, pose with School Board member Shavonda Fernandez. From left, Te’Ron Jefferson, a 12th-grade student at Huguenot High School, placed third; Jakayla “Kayla” Parker, a 10th-grade student at Open High School, placed second; and Renashea Hunt, a 12th-grade student at John Marshall High School, placed first Julianne Tripp Hillian/Richmond Free Press
Annual MLK Oratorical Contest Living the Dream’s Annual MLK Oratorical Contest is a cherished tradition that honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by uplifting students’ voices through oral, musical, artistic, and visual presentations. Living the Dream, Inc. invites 11th and 12th grade Richmond Public Schools students from each high school to participate in this annual event. A panel of professional judges evaluates the students’ presentations. The contest provides a positive and inspiring forum for young people. It is designed to highlight the speeches and ideals of Dr. King while encouraging excellence in writing and public speaking. Through participation, students strengthen their presentation skills, poise, self confidence, and healthy competitive spirit. Each year, the event is hosted in partnership with Virginia Union University and the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia, both of which help create a meaningful and memorable experience for all involved.Each year, the event is hosted in partnership with Virginia Union University and the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia, both of which help create a meaningful and memorable experience for all involved.