2026 NAACP MLK Essay Contest

Each year, NAACP Springfield is proud to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through our annual MLK Day Essay Contest. This contest encourages middle school students to reflect on Dr. King’s vision and share their own voices as we continue the work of “Creating a Beloved Community.” Students are invited to write essays that highlight their creativity, clarity, and commitment to making the world a better place.

For 2026, participants may choose from one of three essay topics:

1. What does the phrase “Beloved Community” mean to you?
2. Make a list of ten things you can do to make the world a better place.
3. Write a thank-you note to Dr. King for his efforts to make the world a better place.

Essays must be original, written in the student’s own words, and no longer than 550 words. The contest is open to all sixth, seventh, and eighth graders, and prizes will be awarded to the top three essays. Submissions are due by January 10, 2026 and must be submitted using our online entry form.

Winners will be announced during the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration at the Gillioz Theater on Monday, January 19, 2026. We look forward to hearing from our youth as they help keep Dr. King’s dream alive through their words and ideas.

Student Name *

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Select Your Age *— Select Choice —1011121314

Select Your School *— Select Choice —Carver Middle SchoolCherokee Middle SchoolJarrett Middle SchoolPershing Middle SchoolPipkin Middle SchoolPleasant View Middle SchoolReed AcademyWestport Middle School

Select Your Grade Level *— Select Choice —Sixth GradeSeventh GradeEighth Grade

Parent or Guardian Name *

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Email *

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Essay Select are

The 2026 Essay Contest Topics to Choose from are listed below:

Essays will be judged on creativity, clarity, and adherence to our theme, “Creating a Beloved Community.” Essays must be original and in your own words. Please select your topic:

Select an essay topic to write about: What does the phrase “Beloved Community” mean to you?Make a list of ten things that you can do to make the world a better place.Write a thank-you note thanking Dr. King for his efforts to make the world a better place.

Enter your Essay Response:

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