Frederick Douglass

The Frederick Douglass Video Essay Contest

THE GREAT AMERICAN

“Influencer”

Who is Frederick Douglass and why are his words and deeds so important in today’s society?

In February 2025, we are excited to announce the 2nd annual video essay contest for students in 5th – 8th grade.

Students individually or in teams are invited to produce a 3 – 5-minute video about what Frederick Douglass’s life and deeds as they relate to today’s society.

What are some of his most famous quotes and why do they matter now?
Why are his life and actions a role model for our country today?
How can everyone use his principles to help others?

Each submission will be judged based on the following factors:

Originality and persuasiveness of the message
Creativity and impact of how it is presented
Effectiveness in powerfully and clearly communicating

Deadline for submissions is midnight (EST) February 28, 2024

PRIZES TO BE AWARDED FOR WINNING ENTRIES

1st Place - $100.00
2ndPlace - $75.00
3rd Place $50.00

Students and teams who want to participate should email fdcontestct@gmail.com and include your name(s), grade, email address and a phone number. You will receive a reply email confirming receipt and confirmation of other details.

Have fun and celebrate Black History month by honoring Fredrick Douglass!

Key Details & Technical Information

To record the video, use the selected and verified device (e.g. smart phone) using a stand or a teammate holding the device, and simply record with the device video and save it.
For android users the file type format will be either HEIC or MP4
For Apple Users it will be file type .MOV
You can name the file, “__Your name or team name__ – FD Contest”

Video tips for presenters:

Be sure to speak up loudly enough so you voice(s) can be easily heard
Speak slowly and clearly,
Look directly at the camera standing close enough so the viewer can clearly see you,
Use expressions and hand gestures (being natural and animated always helps communicate your ideas more powerfully)
It is best if you try to speak from memory or have large print notecards to glance at while looking at the camera. If you are reading, be sure to pause at regular intervals and look up from your paper into the camera, and…
Smile! It really adds to what you are saying … show your enthusiasm!

When your video is finished, please send an email to fdcontestct@gmail.com letting us know you are ready to upload your video file. We will email you a private and secure Dropbox cloud link to upload your video. Make the subject line of your message the same name as the file.

Direct your questions or comments to, Events Chairperson martha@majilly.com

Sponsored by the Pomfret Republican Town Committee