Entries for Rondo Anthology Writing Competition are Being Sought

SAINT PAUL, Minn. - April 27, 2024 - PRLog -- The Rondo: History & Values Anthology is now accepting submissions for the next edition. Dr. Artika A. Tyner made the announcement. She's the founder of the non-profit Planting People Growing Justice™ Leadership Institute (PPGJLI). Tyner grew up in the Rondo community and launched the competition to preserve Rondo's history and honor those living there before it was destroyed in the 1950s by construction of an interstate highway.

PPGJLI is now accepting submissions of 1,000 words or less. Entries can be submitted online. The contest is open to those of all ages living in St. Paul, MN, and of African-American heritage. Entries can be in the categories of fiction, creative fiction, poetry, or prose. The entries of 25 winners will be chosen for inclusion in the anthology. Each winner will receive a cash prize of $100 and a copy of the published book.

PPGJLI has provided information and prompts to help writers and provide inspiration when crafting their entries.

The focus of the Rondo Writing Competition is to bring attention and awareness of the values and history of the Rondo neighborhood.

Rondo was a lively, successful and vibrant neighborhood, a hub of culture and business for African-Americans before it was cut in half by the decision to route the I-94 Interstate highway through its middle. Hundreds of homes, businesses, institutions, and organizations were thrown into chaos, forcing many to move away. The greatness that was once the thriving Rondo neighborhood was sundered.

The good news is that the Rondo spirit that imbued the tight-knit community lives on today. The community celebrates its heritage and history each year during a festival held on the third Saturday in July.

The Rondo: History: & Values Anthology is another way that those of African-American descent can pay homage to the Rondo community. The writing competition helps keep the neighborhood's memory alive, bringing awareness to a part of American history of which many are unaware.

Submit your entry: https://www.ppgjli.org/rondo-anthology