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Two Pasadena journalism nonprofits have revived a youth essay competition that honors civil rights leader Caesar Chavez and promotes writing skills among middle school students. The “Sí Se Puede” Annual Youth Essay Contest, announced March 17, 2025 by the Pasadena Media Foundation and the Formative Youth Journalism Initiative (FYJI), invites students to research and write about Chavez’s legacy.
“We are excited to be part of the relaunch of the ‘Sí Se Puede’ Essay Competition,” said Sheryl Turner, President and Founder of the Pasadena Media Foundation. “It is important to recognize the historic non-violent leadership of César Chávez and to have middle school students submit researched essays about Chávez to ensure his labor and civil rights legacy continues.”
The competition, once a staple in local schools, accepts submissions in both English and Spanish at no cost until April 30, 2025. Winners will receive cash prizes of $250 for first place, $150 for second place, and $100 for third place, with an awards ceremony scheduled for June 2025.
The contest is open to all middle school students in grades 6-8 residing within the Pasadena Community College District attendance zone, as well as those living in ZIP Codes 90032 (Los Angeles/El Sereno), 90041 (Los Angeles/Eagle Rock), 90042 (Los Angeles/Highland Park), 91775 (San Gabriel), 91776 (San Gabriel), 91801 (Alhambra), and 91803 (Alhambra).
Nathan Wang, Executive Director of FYJI, explained the contest’s revival came after historian Roberta Martínez brought attention to the almost-forgotten competition.
“Historian Roberta Martínez brought to our attention the almost-forgotten ‘Sí Se Puede’ essay contest that had once existed in Pasadena,” he said. “FYJI provides opportunities for self-expression in writing, and restarting this essay competition felt incredibly aligned with that theme. We often work with marginalized students, and the Eaton Fire has further marginalized many. Working around this idea of resilience and perseverance was crucial for me as we re-envisioned the contest.”
Submissions will undergo evaluation by a panel of bilingual independent historians and literary scholars, with winners announced in late May 2025. The contest draws inspiration from Dolores Huerta’s powerful phrase “Sí Se Puede,” reflecting the organizers’ commitment to encouraging students to articulate their experiences and perspectives.
The Formative Youth Journalism Initiative is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young voices through journalism and storytelling, aiming to cultivate the next generation of journalists and informed citizens. The Pasadena Media Foundation focuses on promoting media literacy and supporting local journalism while enhancing community engagement and ensuring diverse voices are represented in the media landscape.
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