Washington, D.C. – Each year the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site (NHS), Frederick Douglass Housing Corporation, and the Frederick Douglass Memorial and Historical Association sponsors an oratorical contest. The contest offers an opportunity for students to compete and win prizes, based on their delivery of an excerpt from a speech written and delivered by the great orator, statesman and abolitionist, Frederick Douglass. The contest will take place December 5-9, 2005, beginning at 10:30 am each day, at the Frederick Douglass NHS Visitor Center located at 1411 W Street, SE.
The 2005 contest theme is Frederick Douglass: Thoughts for All Time: America’s Great Orator. Contestants will focus on the breadth of Frederick Douglass’ life and oratorical abilities. The competition is open to all students across the country. Each school will be limited to 3 contestants and 1 alternate student in case of illness. Students will deliver their orations in competition with other students on the following dates:
ELEMENTARY STUDENTS Monday, December 5 (Grades 1-5) Tuesday, December 6
JUNIOR HIGH STUDENTS Wednesday, December 7 (Grades 6-8) Thursday, December 8
SENIOR HIGH STUDENTS Friday, December 9 (Grades 9-12)
Winners in each category will be awarded a United States Savings Bond, a plaque and a certificate. A certificate of participation is awarded to all participants.
