McClellan Announces 2026 Black History Month Essay Contest
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) announced the launch of the 2026 Black History Month Essay Contest for middle school and high school students across Virginia’s Fourth Congressional District.
The competition is open to all middle and high school students who live in or attend school in Virginia’s Fourth and aims to encourage reflection and awareness of Black history and its lasting impact on our country. Essayists should explore the contributions, struggles and achievements of Black Americans, as well as the lessons that can be learned from specific Black figures in understanding the complete narrative of the United States. This competition is meant to promote critical reflection about the experiences that connect us and shape our shared future.
“As the first Black woman to represent Virginia in Congress, I stand on the shoulders of trailblazers who came before me, like Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman to serve in Congress, and John Mercer Langston, the first Black man to represent Virginia in Congress,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “My service would not be possible without them, and every day I work to build on their legacy. I am excited to announce the third annual Black History Month Essay Contest, which centers Black voices and invites the next generation to carry this legacy forward. I encourage all middle and high school students in Virginia’s Fourth District to participate.”
Middle School Prompt: Barbara Rose Johns was a courageous student activist whose leadership and determination helped spark a legal challenge that contributed to the landmark 1954 Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education, which ended racial segregation in public schools in the United States.
Write an essay explaining who Barbara Rose Johns was and discuss the importance of student activism today. In your essay, explain how young people can use their voices, actions, and leadership to influence positive change in their schools and communities, and why youth involvement remains essential to advancing social justice. (350-500 words)
High School Prompt: Carter G. Woodson is known as the “Father of Black History” for his dedication to researching, preserving, and teaching African American history. He established Negro History Week, which later became Black History Month.
Write an essay explaining who Carter G. Woodson was and why he believed it was important for African Americans to learn their own history. Discuss the challenges he faced in promoting Black history and why Black History Month remains relevant as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of United States Independence and the contributions of African Americans. (500-750 words)
The deadline to submit an essay is Monday, February 9th and should be sent to VA04_Projects@mail.house.gov.