Carry On: John Lewis Speech Contest
This competition is for middle and high school students enrolled in Maryland Public Schools.
John Lewis, congressman, student leader, and freedom rider, relied on the power of words to promote peace, justice, and change from childhood until his passing in 2020. Lewis chose words despite the violence enacted upon his body. His speeches have inspired generations of people to choose justice and morality over violence and oppression.
Inspired by John Lewis' words, students will use their voices to bring truth to power in a contemporary setting. Carry On, an oratorical competition, will help students gain confidence in public speaking and learn about nonviolent civil rights actions by honoring the legacy of John Lewis.
Prizes for students in middle school and high school groups are:
1st - $500; 2nd - $300; 3rd - $150; 4th - $100.
Additionally, all placing competitors will receive two tickets to see Mosaic Theatre’s Young John Lewis, a musical by Psalmayene 24.
Submission Deadline: Monday, March 2, 2026 • 11:59 PM
Performance: Wednesday, March 18, 2026 • 6:30 PM
A workshop will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 6:00 PM to answer questions and provide coaching. If you are interested, please email camille@joesmovement.org to register.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Students should choose from one of the following speeches to memorize for the competition. Choose a section of the speech that is less than 5 minutes long.
Record yourself reciting the speech. Use your own oratorical voice. You do not need to imitate John Lewis. Bring your own beliefs, feelings, and interpretation to the words of John Lewis.
Submit the recording via the application form. The full application must be submitted for consideration. If you have trouble uploading, please contact Camille Kashaka at camille@joesmovement.org.
PLEASE NOTE THAT BY PURCHASING YOUR TICKET YOU AGREE TO THE FOLLOWING COVID-19 SAFETY POLICIES:
If you are sick, stay home!
Masks are recommended but not required.
Sanitize your hands upon entrance of the lobby.
