Since 1992
Print and digital marketing
SKOWHEGAN — The Margaret Chase Smith Library has announced the topic of its 22nd annual essay contest — the appropriate role of the media in American society.
The contest, with a top prize of $1,000, is open to Maine high school seniors and invites them to write on a theme related either to a historical milestone or a current event.
The ideal of a free press is so central to democracy that its protection is enshrined in the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, yet its practice is often contested, the library said in a news release. This was true during the McCarthy, Vietnam, and Watergate eras during U.S. Sen. Smith’s time in office. Recently, questions about the ethics and influence of the media have resurfaced through concerns about “fake” news.
Entries are due by Friday, March 30, and decisions will be announced May 4.
Prizes are $1,000 for first place, $500 for second place, $250 for third place, and $50 for five honorable mentions.
For more information, visit the library’s website (www.mcslibrary.org/program/edu/essay.htm) or contact John Taylor at 207-474-7133.
Located in Skowhegan, the library is owned by the Margaret Chase Smith Foundation and operated under its auspices by the University of Maine._ _The library is an archive, museum, educational facility, and public policy center devoted to preserving the legacy of Margaret Chase Smith, promoting research into American political history, advancing the ideals of public service, and exploring issues of civic engagement.
PHOTO: Margaret Chase Smith, former U.S. senator from Maine. (MCS Library photo)
