The Raphael Lemkin Essay Contest

Dedicated to the man who names "the crime with no name."

PLU invites currently registered students to write an essay on the topic of genocide.  A panel of faculty members will judge the essays.  The first place essay writer will be awarded a $750 prize; the second place award will be $250.

Essays should reflect Raphael Lemkin's ideals and concerns to include such topics as: the concept and definition of genocide; ethical and legal aspects of genocide and international law; prevention of genocide and enforcement of the genocide convention; other appropriate essay topics discussed and negotiated between contestants and the faculty review committee prior to the final submission.

Essays must demonstrate that students have read the biographical sketch of Raphael Lemkin.

You may submit a draft of your essay to be reviewed by a member of the faculty review committee in January before the official essay deadline (mid-February each year).  One member of the committee will critique your paper, making constructive suggestions.  Your draft will be returned to you by late January for any necessary changes.

In 2009, the final essay submission deadline is 4:00 p.m. Friday, February (date to be announced).  The procedure is to submit two copies of your final paper in a large envelope marked "Raphael Lemkin Essay Competition," to the Division of Social Sciences, Xavier 152.  The two copies of the final product must include a cover sheet, an abstract, the completed essay, and one computer disk or CD (in word format) containing your essay and related materials.  The cover sheet is to include your name, a current mailing address, email address and telephone number.

All entrants will be invited to attend an awards ceremony to be held later during Spring Semester.

For additional information contact: Professor Robert Ericksen (ericksrp@plu.edu).