Nonviolence in Action
The Utah Martin Luther King Jr. Human Rights Commission
Statewide Essay, Poetry, and Art Competition
The Martin Luther King Jr. Human Rights Commission invites students in grades 8–12 to explore the Six Principles of Nonviolence through writing and visual art. Use your creativity to reflect on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision and share your ideas about how nonviolence can shape our lives, our communities, and our future.
Rules and eligibility
- This contest is open to all 8-12 grade students in the state of Utah.
- All submissions should explore one or more of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Six Principles of Nonviolence.
- Essays and poems may be submitted in English or Spanish.
- Submissions must be created by the student.
- AI-generated content and copyrighted imagery are not permitted.
- Submissions must be received by Nov. 29, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. MST.
Contest categories
Essay
Explore one or more of the Six Principles of Nonviolence and connect them to your life, history, or the world today. How can nonviolent action help build the "Beloved Community"?
Submissions are limited to 300 words. Double-spaced, 12 point standard font. Word or pdf.
Poetry
Put your ideas into prose. Reflect on what it means to choose nonviolence in the face of conflict, injustice, or division.
Submissions are limited to 300 words. Double-spaced, 12 point standard font. Word or pdf.
Visual Art
Bring one or more of the Six Principles of Nonviolence to life through original artwork that depicts nonviolence in action.
Art submissions must be titled. All mediums are accepted.
Recognition and prizes
Winning students will be recognized, and students selected as honorable mentions may also have opportunities to be recognized during Utah's MLK celebrations throughout the state of Utah in January 2027.
Honoraria will be awarded to top winners in each category:
- First place: $300 gift card
- Second place: $200 gift card
- Third place: $100 gift card
Competition timeline
- Competition launch: Oct. 26, 2026
- Submission deadline: Nov. 29, 2026 by 11:59 p.m. MST
- Submission review: Dec. 1 - Dec. 14, 2026
- Winners contacted: Dec. 16, 2026
- Student recognition at MLK Day events: January, 2027
Resources
- MLK Day Observance Toolkit | Utah's Martin Luther King Jr. Human Rights Commission
- Dr. King's Six Principles of Nonviolence | The King Center
