FREEDOM OF SPEECH. FREEDOM OF WORSHIP. FREEDOM FROM WANT. FREEDOM FROM FEAR.

These 4 Freedoms were outlined as essential human rights by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt in 1941 and immortalized on canvas by Norman Rockwell (first published in The Saturday Evening Post in 1943).

Old Mill Road Media, publisher of Berkshire Magazine, is holding its 2nd Annual CREATE 4 FREEDOM™ Essay & Poetry Contest.  This year’s contest focuses on a different president: Abraham Lincoln.

The Lincoln Memorial, which celebrates its centennial this year, has inspired millions of people as a symbol of “Freedom and Dignity.”

“Dignity” is not a commonly used word in 2022, but examples are all around us.

In the form of an essay or poem, this year’s contest challenges today’s writers to discuss the meaning of the word “Dignity” by sharing their own personal response or life experience.

The works will be judged on their artistry, creativity, thoughtfulness, and intelligence. Writings must be original and previously unpublished. The Essay submissions must be no more than 1,500 words in length. The Poetry submissions must be no more than 250 words. Acceptable poetry forms include rhyme, haiku, or free verse. First Prize winners will each have their entries published in the August 2022 edition of Berkshire Magazine and will each receive a $1,250 cash prize, courtesy of Arcadia Publishing and 1761 Arts.

Deadline is June 6, 2022.