Lakewood, WA – Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) announced Rion and Waverly as the winners of her Black History Month Essay Contest on the House floor. Students in grades 7–12 in Washington’s 10th Congressional District were invited to celebrate Black History Month by submitting essays that honor Black Washingtonians who have significantly impacted our region.
“Black history is American history,” said Strickland. “I am proud to host this new program, honor local Black leaders, and give students the opportunity to learn about the history of Black excellence in Washington State. Congratulations to Rion and Waverly.”
Rion Walker, the winner of the High school essay contest, wrote about Quincey Jones, a world-renowned producer and composer who began his journey in Seattle.
“Talent exists everywhere, but opportunity does not, and addressing this gap is a civic responsibility,” wrote Rion in the winning essay.
Waverly Davis, the winner of the Middle school essay contest, wrote about Dorothy Hollingsworth, the first Black woman elected to serve on the Seattle School Board.
“Dorothy’s story is powerful and really has made me feel some sort of hope that things aren’t always as set in stone as they seem; sometimes you just have to reach for the stars,” wrote Waverly in the winning essay.
Overall, a dozen students across both the High and Middle school competitions submitted essays. Read more about the essay contest here.
Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is Whip of the New Democrat Coalition, Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, and is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.
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