Democracy & Me invited students from three local schools to participate in the 2025 Dare To Dream Speech Competition in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. gave over 2,500 public speeches during his lifetime. Students were asked to select an unfamiliar speech and use it as inspiration to create their own original speech. Students were encouraged to resist the temptation of using the familiar “I Have a Dream ” speech and take advantage of the opportunity to learn something new about Dr. King while creatively reflecting on their ideas on how to address an issue that is important to kids today.
First place winners took home $200, second place winners took home $100, and 3rd place winners took home $50! The D&Me team was impressed and deeply honored to witness the hard work and passion that students put into their speeches.
Academy of Multilingual Immersion Studies
At Academy of Multilingual Immersion Studies, eighth grader Leyla Ramirez-Garcia delivered a heart felt speech that won first prize. Leyla drew connections between the Civil Rights Movement and the sentiments of students from immigrant families today. Julie Rizo Montenegro won second prize, and Nayerlin Cruz Gusman won third prize.
Leyla recorded her speech at school, which aired twice on 91.7 WVXU on February 28th in honor of Black History Month.
Thank you to school counselor Daryan Martin, who personally worked with students on their speeches and facilitated the judging process!
Idea Academy-Price Hill
The third graders at Idea Academy in Price Hill impressed the panel of judges with their thought-provoking speeches and wisdom far beyond their years. Shalin Harmon won first prize, Ly’ric Moseley won second prize, and Ny’Shawn Williams won third prize.
Thank you to third grade teacher, Aviguyil Yisrael-Irons who encouraged students to enter the contest and helped students practice their writing and speech delivery.
Hays-Porter Elementary School
Fifth and 6th grade students at Hays Porter Elementary School participated in the competition for the first time this year. Jamir Brandon took inspiration from Dr. King’s words and speech delivery and impressed the judges with his passionate and thoughtful speech. His enthusiasm and creative writing landed him first place! Gerrod Buchanon took home second place and Anala Hall won third place.
A special thank you to Principal Neidra West and the Hays Porter middle school team!
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