30th Annual BHRC Essay/Arts Contest Winners Announced

Bloomington, Ind. – The Bloomington Human Rights Commission (BHRC) announced the winners of its annual essay/art contest for area students in grades K-6 and will host an awards ceremony for the winners at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 17, at City Hall. Mayor John Hamilton will present the awards to this year’s winners. 

The theme for this year’s contest was “My Rights. Your Rights. Our Rights.” This year’s judges were Carolyn Calloway-Thomas, Pamela Jackson, Valeri Haughton-Motley, and Byron Bangert, all members of the BHRC. 

The essay winners were first place, Cameron Christie from Templeton Elementary; second place, Robert Cole from Childs Elementary; and tied for third place, Jo Fitzpatrick from University Elementary; and Cora Hall from Childs Elementary.

The art winners were first place, Phoebe Mendota from Templeton Elementary; second place, Carter Bailey from Lakeview Elementary; and third place, Reese Korte from Lakeview Elementary. 

“The essays are thoughtful and so full of kindness and goodwill toward others,”  Carolyn Calloway-Thomas said. “Sharing knowledge of this level and with this community is enriching for all.”

The Bloomington Human Rights Commission congratulates all of this year's winners and thanks all of the students who participated in the contest and the teachers who encouraged them. 

“Bloomington is a city that strives to uphold and support human rights,” said Mayor John Hamilton. “Bringing the visions and ideas of our youngest residents into this work gives older residents an opportunity to learn from those that are the future of our city. We are proud to recognize their work.” 

For more information, please contact Bloomington Human Rights Commission Director Barbara E. McKinney at 812-349-3429 or email the commission at human.rights@bloomington.in.gov.