Application Deadline: April 17, 2026
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council (NMHC) invites high school students from public and private schools across the Commonwealth to participate in a special edition of the annual “My Marianas Writing Contest,” commemorating and celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The “A250: My Marianas Writing Contest” promotes awareness of the diverse experiences and
perspectives of CNMI high school students through published personal narrative essays. This
year’s contest is inspired by two historic milestones: the 250th anniversary of the founding of the
United States and the 50th anniversary of the Covenant to Establish the Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands in Political Union with the United States of America.
This program is part of By the People: Conversations Beyond 250, a series of community-driven programs created by humanities councils in collaboration with local partners. The initiative was developed by the Federation of State Humanities Councils and the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage.
