"The Chickasaw I Admire Most" is the theme for the 2011 Chickasaw Nation Anoli Creative Writing Contest.
2011 Chickasaw Nation Anoli Creative Writing Contest Entry Form
The topic will allow Chickasaw writers in grades six through 12 and young adults through age 24 a unique opportunity to both explore their culture and history while competing for cash prizes and awards.
The Anoli (the Chickasaw word meaning 'to tell') Creative Writing Contest was established in 2007 by the Chickasaw Nation Division of Arts and Humanities.
"The process of putting our thoughts and feelings into words connects us more deeply to ourselves, to each other and to the world around us," said Laura Clark, Humanities and Literary Arts Coordinator for the division.
"We established writing contest to encourage that connection by providing opportunities for creative writing for youth and young adults."
Deadline for entries is Friday, February 25. Writers may submit from one to a total of three entries in the categories of poetry (64 lines or less), short story (1000 to 2000 words) narrative or essay (1000 words or less).
Cash awards for each category are as follows:
Division 1 – grades 6-8
First place $100
Second place $75
Third place $60
Division 2 – grades 9-12
First place $200
Second place $125
Third place $100
Division 3 – young adult through age 24
First place $300
Second place $200
Third place $150
A panel of judges will evaluate original works based on age division, category of work, how well the creative writing relates to the topic, artistic form and literary expression. Winners will receive their prizes and medals Saturday, March 26 at the Youth Arts Month Celebration in Ada.
Completed entry forms, a copy of CDIB or tribal citizenship and original entries can be mailed to the Chickasaw Nation Division of Arts and Humanities, P.O. Box 1548, Ada, Okla., 74820. Entries may also be hand-delivered to the division offices at 208 East Main Street in Ada.
For more information, call Laura Clark or Lorie Robins at (580) 272-5520 or email laura.clark@chickasaw.net or lorie.robins@chickasaw.net.
