The Maryland Judiciary's Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO) has announced the 18th annual Conflict Resolution Day Bookmark Art Contest. This event is open to all Maryland students from kindergarten through eighth grade. The contest aims to promote peacemaking and celebrates national Conflict Resolution Month in October, with entries due by October 19, 2023.
Participants are encouraged to design bookmarks that focus on themes related to conflict resolution or prevention. Suggested topics include peer mediation, apologizing, respecting differences, talking things out, solving problems together, listening, tolerance, diversity, inclusion, building peace, and alternatives to violence. The initiative serves as a platform for teachers, parents, and students to engage in discussions about peaceful conflict resolution.
Supreme Court of Maryland Chief Justice Matthew J. Fader expressed his enthusiasm for the contest by stating: “The annual Conflict Resolution Day bookmark contest has fostered discussions and learning opportunities about conflict resolution among thousands of Maryland students, their peers, and teachers over the years. I look forward to seeing students’ imaginative artwork.”
An awards ceremony will be held on December 7, 2023, at the Administrative Office of the Courts in Annapolis for the winners and their families. Entries will be evaluated based on artistic merit and the conveyed message regarding conflict resolution or prevention. Prizes will be awarded across three age groups: grades K-2, 3-5, and 6-8. First-place winners will receive $100; second place will earn $75; third place will take home $50. Selected winning entries will be printed and distributed throughout Maryland as part of promoting conflict resolution efforts. Those whose designs are chosen for printing will also receive copies of their own printed entry.
Further details about the contest can be found on MACRO’s website at mdcourts.gov/macro/eventsconflictresolutionday2023.