An essay contest focusing on a famous civil rights leader is accepting submissions.

The Ohio University Southern Council on Diversity and Cultural Enhancement is sponsoring its second annual Martin Luther King Jr. Essay contest. The contest is open to sixth to 12th graders.

This year’s theme is “King’s Vision of America in the Aftermath of 9/11.” The Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation will dedicate a memorial in King’s honor Sunday in Washington, D.C. The memorial is located between the Jefferson and Lincoln memorials.

The 10-year anniversary of 9/11 took place in September. The essay will address how King may have addressed America after the fact.

“At the 10-year anniversary of 9/11, consider how Dr. King might have continued to spread his message of hope for America’s future,” the rules read.

“What specific examples of dignity, sensitivity and mutual respect might he have challenged us to engage in the aftermath of 9/11? Following King’s leadership, how might we continue to be a nation that celebrates its diversity of talents?”

Essay word requirement is 750 to 1,000 words. Entries must be in 12 point Times New Roman font, double-spaced and standard margin.

Entries must also include name, address, home phone number, parent’s email address, school, grade and age on a separate page. Identifying information may not be in the essay body. The submission deadline is Dec. 16.

The contest is divided into two divisions: sixth through eighth grade and ninth through 12th grade. Each division will have first second and third place and will win money.

First place will win $100, second place will win $50 and third place will win $25. Winners will also receive certificate, an OU T-shirt and an invitation to Ohio University Southern Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration Jan. 16.

Submissions may be received via online at www.ousmlk.com or to Dr. Hayley Haugen, Ohio University Southern, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Contest, 1804 Liberty Avenue, Ironton, OH, 45638.

Contest rules and guidelines may be found at www.southern.ohiou.edu/mlk .