The Maryland Judiciary is calling on students to contribute to the 13th annual Conflict Resolution Day Student Bookmark Art Contest. This initiative aims to promote peacemaking through art, with participation open to Maryland students from kindergarten through eighth grade. The contest coincides with national Conflict Resolution Day on October 18.
Students are encouraged to design bookmarks centered around themes such as peer mediation, apologizing, respecting differences, and building peace. Chief Judge of the Maryland Court of Appeals, Mary Ellen Barbera, emphasized the importance of peaceful conflict resolution: “We invite Maryland’s students to think about ways to resolve conflicts peacefully and to share their ideas through their art.”
Since its inception in 2005, the contest has gained popularity. Last year saw over 1,800 participants statewide. In total, there were 15 winners and 48 honorable mentions.
Entries will be judged based on creativity and message. Prizes for first, second, and third place will be awarded across three age categories: grades K-2, 3-5, and 6-8. First-place winners will receive $75; second-place winners $50; and third-place winners $25. Selected winning entries will be printed for distribution throughout Maryland as part of a campaign promoting conflict resolution. Additionally, the top 1,000 entries will be showcased at the Judicial College Education and Conference Center in Annapolis this December.
Winners and their families are invited to attend an awards ceremony in Annapolis on December 11 where Chief Judge Barbera will present the awards.
The contest is organized by the Maryland Judiciary’s Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO). Submissions must be received by October 18. More details can be found on MACRO's website.