HARTFORD—In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) announced on Thursday the 15 winners of his ninth annual ‘Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Essay Contest.’ This year, Murphy received close to 1600 entries from elementary, middle, and high school students from across Connecticut reflecting on Dr. King’s dream and their own aspirations.

“Reflecting on Dr. King’s work reminds us of the courage and determination needed to build a more just world. Every year, I’m moved by the essays from students across our state who show not only their understanding of his legacy but their commitment to carrying it forward. Their thoughtful reflections give me hope and remind us all of the incredible potential of young people to lead us toward a better future,” said Murphy.

1st Congressional District Winners:

Greta AveLallemant, John Wallace Middle School

Anhadhveer Singh, John F. Kennedy School

Alexis Mair, University H.S. of Science and Engineering

2nd Congressional District Winners:

Nicole O'Dell, Northeast Academy Arts Magnet School

Nataly Antunez, Westbrook Middle School

Matayo Swepson, Griswold High School

3rd Congressional District Winners:

Vaasvik Narayanam, Norton Elementary School

Adorah Gilles, Davis Street Arts & Academics Magnet School

Ethan Greenwood, Xavier High School

4th Congressional District Winners:

Denver Smalls, Kendall Elementary School

Isabel Bui, St. Luke’s School

Jamia Laude, Fairchild Wheeler Interdistrict Magnet High School

5th Congressional District Winners:

Emily Munoz, Linden Street School

Elijah Dickey, Sherman School

Elena Agban, Farmington High School

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