HARTFORD—In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) announced on Wednesday the 15 winners of his eighth annual ‘Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Essay Contest.’ This year, Murphy received more than 1,650 entries from elementary, middle, and high school students from across Connecticut reflecting on Dr. King’s dream and their own aspirations.

“As we reflect on Dr. King’s fight for equality and justice, we are reminded of the work still ahead. Every year, I am so impressed by the students from across the state who submit such thoughtful essays on what Dr. King’s legacy means to them. Their hope and determination to build a more equitable future should inspire us all,” said Murphy.

The winning essays can be viewed below. Click on each student’s name to download his or her essay.

1st Congressional District Winners:

Markayla Johnson, Jumoke Academy Honors Science, Math, & Research Technology (SMaRT)

Doris Lu, Renbrook School

Satvik Kadappanavar, South Windsor High School

2nd Congressional District Winners:

Zoey Sisley, Northeast Academy Elementary School

Lillian Pascino, Captain Nathan Hale Middle School

David Frazer, East Lyme High School

3rd Congressional District Winners:

Summer Hazel Phelps, East Rock Magnet School

Madison Persaud, James H Moran Middle School

Livia Doran, Hamden High School

4th Congressional District Winners:

Isabelle Babu-Boateng, Samuel Staples Elementary School

Rosbin Flores, Black Rock School

Misbah Sifat, Westhill High School

5th Congressional District Winners:

Declan Rearick, Lake Garda Elementary School

Isabella Pyo, Norton Elementary School

Jorge Escalera, Bethel High School