The Maryland Judiciary is inviting young artists to participate in its annual Conflict Resolution Student Bookmark Art Contest. This contest is open to students from kindergarten through eighth grade and aims to promote peacemaking. It coincides with the celebration of Conflict Resolution Day on October 16.
Participants are encouraged to design bookmarks focusing on themes related to conflict resolution, such as peer mediation, communication, apologizing, respecting differences, problem-solving, listening, tolerance, building peace, and non-violence alternatives.
Entries will be evaluated based on creativity and message content. Awards will be distributed among three age groups: grades K-2, 3-5, and 6-8. The first-place winners in each group will receive $75, second-place winners $50, and third-place winners $25. Additionally, four to six selected designs will be printed as bookmarks for statewide distribution.
The contest is organized by the Judiciary’s Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO). Since its inception in 2005, it has gained popularity with over 1,000 submissions annually from students across Maryland.
A ceremony honoring the winning participants will take place at the Courts of Appeal Building in Annapolis on November 12. Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera will present awards to the winners. The top 1,000 entries will also be exhibited in the building's lobby throughout November and December.
Entries must be submitted by October 16. Submissions can use a template available on MACRO's website or any paper format with dimensions not exceeding three inches by nine inches. Completed artworks should not be folded and must be sent to MACRO's office in Annapolis.
For further details about the contest or submission process, interested parties can contact Alecia Parker at 410-260-3540 or via email at [email protected]. Media inquiries should be directed to the Office of Communications and Public Affairs at 410-260-1488 or [email protected].