Writing Contest: "SOCIAL JUSTICE"

Jewish Museum of Florida Announces Creative Writing Contest for Students Submission deadline: December 10, 2010

Writing Contest Theme:  "SOCIAL JUSTICE"
How do stereotyping, bigotry, and the pressures from those around us affect the way that we act? Students may submit a poem, monologue, essay (narrative, expository, or persuasive), or short story answering this question.

Exhibit Summary
The Jewish Museum of Florida offers this creative writing contest in conjunction with our upcoming exhibit Seeking Justice: The Leo Frank Case Revisited, which will be on display from January 19 - August 14, 2011.

This comprehensive exhibit recounts the tragic 1913 murder of Mary Phagan, a 13-year old white Christian girl and the controversial arrest, trial, conviction, and commuting of the death sentence and then lynching of Leo Frank, the Jewish superintendent of the National Pencil Factory in Atlanta. This murder mystery, filled with antisemitism, religious bigotry, racism, stereotyping, discrimination, regional and social class prejudices, and the power of the press ended when a mob of powerful men took the law into their own hands. The stereotypes and bigotry that once filled the courtroom, newspapers and daily conversations of the Leo Frank era are still echoing in today's society.

This exhibit explores the effect of racism, bigotry and discrimination on social justice. What is social justice: What is it based on? How do stereotyping, bigotry and the pressures from those around us affect the way we act? Delve into the facts behind one of the most infamous criminal dramas in American history and make your decision. 

Who is eligible:  All middle and high school students in Florida. One entry per student is permitted.

Guidelines: Writing submissions must be in 12-point font size on white paper, maximum length of 500 words. Completed application forms may be downloaded from the Museum's website: www.jewishmuseum.com. and must be attached to each entry.

Deadline: All submissions must be received by mail or delivery by 5:00 pm on Friday, December 10, 2010 to the Jewish Museum of Florida, 301 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139. No e-mail entries accepted.

Prizes:  Prizes will be awarded to 3 middle school and 3 high school students as follows: 1st Prize:  $125     2nd Prize:  $75       3rd Prize:  $50
Winners and their families will be invited to the awards ceremony at the Museum on Tuesday, January 18, 2011. The winners' classes will also receive a free tour of the exhibit.

Please contact the Education Coordinator at 305-672-5044 ext. 3187 oreducation@jewishmuseum.com for more information or to book a Museum Field Experience for your class.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM
The Jewish Museum of Florida on South Beach is housed in two adjacent lovingly restored historic buildings that were once synagogues for Miami Beach's first Jewish congregation.The focal point of the Museum is its core exhibit MOSAIC: Jewish Life in Florida: 1763 to the Present and temporary history and art exhibits that change periodically. Currently on display are Florida Jews in the Military and  Last Days of the Four Seasons: Holocaust Survivors Live Life to the Fullest - A Photodocumentary by Rick Nahmias through January 2, 2011. A Collections & Research Center, several films, Timeline Wall of Jewish history, Museum Store and Bessie's Bistro for snacks complete the experience for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Accredited by the American Association of Museums, the Museum is located at 301 Washington Avenue, South Beach and is open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.except Mondays and Civil and Jewish holidays. Admission: Adults/$6; Seniors/$5;Families/$12; Members and children under 6/Always Free; Saturdays/Free. For information: 305-672-5044 orwww.jewishmuseum.com