Few loom as large as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. As a major leader of the civil rights charge in the 1960s, his legacy still impacts the United States today. To celebrate MLK’s profound impact on the United States, Oviedo Citizens in Action (OCIA) is hosting the fourth annual “I Have a Dream” competition.

Past President of OCIA Danny McKinney says, “OCIA represented a concerned group in Oviedo whose voices were not being heard. The group was formed when the city was not so open-minded.”

The “I Have a Dream” competition is designed to provide a platform for people who are carrying out Dr. King’s words. In order to enter the competition, one is required to have “organized or participated in an event that helps others, improves understanding and acceptance, and helps fulfill MLK’s definition of service.” OCIA states that one can nominate themselves or nominate another person. 

In order to be considered for the award, applicants should “tell OCIA in a paragraph why [you] believe this individual or organization merits recognition.”

There are three different categories for possible applicants: adults, high schoolers, and organizations/businesses. Each group is eligible to win a commemorative plaque as well as a $100 check donated by the Citizens Bank of Florida. 

Alongside the award, OCIA will be holding a celebration on MLK day (Jan. 17, 2022), beginning with a parade down Broadway Street, and ending with festivities at Round Lake Park. It is at the park where winners will be announced. 

Deadline for recommendations is Jan. 7, 2022. Recommendations can be mailed to OCIA, Box Office Box 620946, Oviedo, 32765. One can also email their recommendation to [email protected]. 

For more information on the competition and how to apply, please click here.