Black History Month Writing Contest
Funded by the Cerritos College Foundation
Write about a Black public figure or collective—activist, artist, writer, athlete, educator, filmmaker, politician, business leader, influencer, etc.—who you believe hasn't gotten the recognition they deserve. In a 750-word original essay or a poem of any length, sing their praises, say their names, let the world know who they are, what they’ve done, and why you think the rest of the world should know their work.
Prizes: 1st place ($125), 2nd place ($75), 3rd place ($50) + publication on the English department website
2024 Winner
"The woman who wasn't afraid to think outside the (doll) box" by Dayannara Aguilar
2023 Winner
"In the Shackles of Prejudice" by Angel Mejia
2022 Winners
1st place: "Tallahatchie" by Jadel Moreira
2nd place:"Say My Name and More" by Fatima Durrani
3rd place: "I can't believe Samuel L. Jackson has never won an Oscar" by Monique Gutierrez
2021 Winner
"The Forgotten Cat" by Steven Wright Jr.
Stay Connected