Throughout the county and across the country, communities are suffering from the consequences of social injustice: poverty, racism, inequity, violence, isolation, and economic segregation. Many do to not recognize that their own lives suffer as a result of social injustice, regardless of whether or not they are a member of a community that has traditionally been subjected to blatant or implicit discrimination. San Mateo County Libraries are committed to challenging the ways of thinking and societal norms that entrench injustice and decrease inclusion. We’re inviting our area youth in 5th to 12th grade to create posters that we can proudly display in our libraries, schools, and local businesses that let people know we’re #openforall.
We encourage Art, Social Science, World Language, and Health teachers, as well as principals, and guidance counselors to use this contest as part of their curriculum. All students who live or go to school in San Mateo County are urged to submit a poster. The winning posters will be displayed at San Mateo County Libraries, local businesses, and in various venues that choose to promote inclusion and acceptance.
Are you a business that would like to display our winning design? Let us know!, opens a new window
What We're Looking For:
- An eye-catching poster design to promote social justice and inclusion that adheres to the contest rules below.
- so·cial jus·tice (noun): justice in terms of the distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society.
- in·clu·sion (noun): the action or state of including or of being included within a group or structure.
- A positive message that lets viewers know that the business they are entering is a safe space for those coping with the consequences of social injustice.
- Original content and creativity.
What You'll Win:
- The Every Wear DIY Printing Kit, opens a new window, all you need to start screen printing your own images including a professionally pre-burned silkscreen and an hour of instruction (Total package valued at over $175).
- Notoriety, your poster will be on display in multiple libraries, businesses, schools, and other participating locations.
Contest Information & Rules:
- Posters must have a positive visual and/or verbal message and include this year’s theme: #openforall.
- In this context, #openforall refers to businesses that actively invite people and communities that are coping with the consequences of social injustice.
- Any medium may be used, (crayon, paint, pencil, marker, photographs, etc.).
- Posters will be printed 11” x 17”.
- All images and content must be your own, original work, or free from copyright restrictions.
- Open to all public, private and homeschooled students in grades 5 - 12 who live or go to school in San Mateo County.
- Only one entry per person.
- Entry Deadline: 11:59 PM, March 31st, 2018. You may submit your poster below or in person at any participating library branch.
