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Senator Murphy is inviting elementary, middle, and high school students from across Connecticut to help honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. by submitting essays that reflect on Dr. King's dream, their own aspirations, and the importance of what Dr. King means to them.

Have questions? Please contact our office at: MLK_Essay@murphy.senate.gov

The 2024 contest is now open!
Due Date: January 5th, 2024
Winners will be announced on Martin Luther King Day (Jan 15).


Writing Prompt: Students must submit individual essays that reflect on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream and work towards equality. Students should provide their own aspirations, and the importance of what Dr. King means to them.

Word Count Guidelines: 
Elementary School (K-5): 100-200 wordsElementary School Students may submit essays with drawings or photos.Middle School (6-8): 300 wordsHigh School (9-12): 500 words
Entries may be handwritten or submitted electronically using the form on this page.

To Submit Essays by Mail: Send all submissions to
The Office of Senator Murphyc/o MLK Essay Contest120 Huyshope AveSte. 401Hartford, CT 06106
Submissions must include

  • The student's first and last name
  • The name of the student's school (no abbreviations)
  • The address of the student's school
  • The student's grade and teacher
  • A parent's contact information (phone AND email, please)

Submit Your Essay


You can find this year’s winners below: