Incorporating ideals from Dr. King’s writings and speeches, nine fourth and fifth-grade students from the Houston ISD presented original three-to-five-minute speeches addressing the topic: “As a student of Dr. King’s life, what message of hope do you think he would have for the world today?”
Otis Marks III, a fifth-grade student, earned first place with a personal speech honoring his late grandmother Marie Marks, whose courage during the civil rights movement inspired his own commitment to Dr. King’s message of hope and equality. Motivated by her legacy, Otis shared with the audience that if Dr. King were alive today, he would challenge the next generation, calling for a world “where equality is not just spoken, but lived every day,” where there are “no labels that divide us,” and where people come together at “the table of brotherhood.” He encouraged his peers and community to take action, reminding them that “dreams don’t just build themselves,” and closed with an uplifting call for unity and justice: “Carry this torch with me…carry it until flames light up every corner of injustice, and let us walk side-by-side and step-by-step toward the world Dr. King knew was possible.”
Presented by Foley & Lardner LLP in celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the competition honors the civil rights leader’s legacy while fostering the next generation of thinkers and speakers.
“It’s truly inspiring to witness the hard work, dedication, and talent that these fourth- and fifth-grade students bring to this event every year, and it’s especially meaningful as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of this longstanding Houston tradition,” said Scott Ellis, Foley managing partner and event chair and emcee of the Houston event.
“Today reminded us all that Dr. King’s ideals are alive and well in the hearts of these students. Congratulations to Otis Marks III and all the finalists for delivering powerful words of hope that honor Dr. King’s vision and legacy. We also extend our deepest appreciation to the historic Antioch Missionary Baptist Church for hosting the competition for three decades and commend their remarkable impact as they celebrate 160 years of service in the Houston community.”
Stormii Olezene, a fourth-grade student from Blackshear Elementary, and Juelz Phipps, a fifth-grader from Bonham Elementary, tied for second place in the 30th annual Houston competition. Fifth-grader Ailani Briceno from Crespo Elementary was awarded third place.
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