26th Annual WI Labor History Essay Contest

Since 1983, the Wisconsin Labor History Society has sponsored an annual Labor History Essay Contest for high school students as a way of encouraging students to become more aware of our rich labor history, especially in Wisconsin.

If labor is to continue to contribute to American life and development, it is essential that the values and experiences of labor solidarity and struggle – both victories and defeats – be passed from one generation to the next.

WLHS's 2009-10 Essay Contest invites Wisconsin students in grades 9-12 to write on the topic: "Unions have been important to my family and my community because..."

Up to $1,500 in prizes will be awarded in this year's essay contest and will include a $500 first prize, $300 second prize, $200 third prize, and up to five $100 prizes for honorable mention.

The Society suggests that students contact their parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, neighbors or friends to learn what labor union membership and participation may have meant to them. Teachers are encouraged to assist students in developing meaningful essays and to develop class projects to have students write about a family member or neighbor's experiences in the union.

Essays will be judged on understanding of the material, writing style, and significance of the topic. Each should be approximately 750 words in length, typed, double-spaced, on white paper. Students must submit two copies. The cover sheet must list the title of the essay, the student's name, address, and home telephone number, the name and address of the student's school and grade. If applicable, list family member’s union affiliation. Where the student is assisted or encouraged by a teacher, the teacher's name should also appear on the cover sheet.

Students should send their completed essays to Prof. Harvey Kaye, Center for History and Social Change, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Green Bay, WI 54311. Essays must be postmarked no later than February 15, 2010.

Winners will be announced at the Wisconsin Labor History Society Conference to be held in late spring, 2010.

The Society, affiliated with the State Historical Society of Wisconsin, holds the annual contest to encourage the study of labor history in schools. Funds for prizes are donated by Wisconsin unions.

For more information, contact essay contest coordinator Harvey Kaye (920) 465-2355.