Dr. MLK "More Than A Dream" Oratory Competition

Dr. King called us not just to dream — but to act. The More Than a Dream Oratory Competition uplifts voices committed to justice, accountability, and meaningful change. Your ticket purchase and contribution supports community dialogue and the People Over Politics movement — a commitment to putting community, truth, and accountability ahead of ideology, rhetoric, or special interests.


This is more than an event. It is an investment in people, purpose, and progress. If you are able, please consider contributing above the cost of your ticket to help expand the reach and impact of this work.prizes for speakers who challenge us to move from vision to action.


“More Than a Dream”

Competition Prompt:


In an original speech, contestants must explore what it means to move beyond aspiration and into action.

Speakers should address:

  • A present-day challenge facing our communities, our democracy, or our justice system; and
  • The concrete responsibility individuals, institutions, or leaders have to transform that challenge into measurable change.


This is not a recitation of Dr. King’s words. This is a call to speak in your own voice, grounded in truth, courage, and accountability.

Speeches should reflect:

  • Moral clarity
  • Original thinking
  • A forward-looking vision rooted in action—not rhetoric alone


Key Question to Answer:

What does it mean, today, to live out a dream that demands responsibility, evidence, and courage—not just hope?


Contestant Divisions & Cash Prizes: This competition features three contestant divisions to ensure fairness, accessibility, and excellence across age groups. Entry fees and contributions help fund cash prizes and scholarships for each division.


Youth Division (Middle & High School)

• 1st Place: $250

• 2nd Place: $150

• 3rd Place: $100


College / Young Adult Division (Ages 19–25)

• 1st Place: $500

• 2nd Place: $250

• 3rd Place: $150


Adult / Legacy Division (Ages 26+)

• 1st Place: $1,000

• 2nd Place: $500

• 3rd Place: $250


All prizes are awarded based on independent judging criteria focused on originality, clarity, delivery, and connection to the theme “More Than a Dream.”

 

Contribution rules

  1. I am a U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted permanent resident (i.e., green card holder).
  2. This contribution is made from my own funds, and funds are not being provided to me by another person or entity for the purpose of making this contribution.
  3. I am making this contribution with my own personal credit card and not with a corporate or business credit card or a card issued to another person.
  4. I am at least eighteen years old.
Pol. adv. paid for by the Amber Givens Campaign. Campaign Treasurer, Chris Wesley.

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