1st Place, Bylined Opinion Article
2021-22, Division 2, News Writing
By Lindsey Zousmer
The Hawkeye
Bloomfield Hills HS
My day consists of going to school, practice, work, eating dinner with my family, doing homework, and heading to bed. In spite of this seemingly simple schedule, I daily experience hatred, exclusion, bullying, injustice, and things that I want to change, so I am determined to do just that.
I once viewed myself as a minor: a small 5’3” student who was weak and incapable of making a difference, but now I recognize the harm in that perspective. As I look around my class-room at 28 other individuals who are just as qualified to stand up for what they believe in, I feel hopeful. The fact that we are young people only makes us more powerful. Our minds have a longevity ahead of us, time to educate ourselves and dedicate to projects in which we are passionate, create realms of kindness and safe spaces that could change lives. Our voices now are more important than ever.
Whether it is bullying you witness in the school building, a homeless person that you empathize with on the sidewalk, a hateful message you see online, or someone who is struggling with their mental health, we all have the power to make a difference. We are always told to say something when we see something, but do we ever fully understand the importance of that concept?
Inviting someone to your lunch table who has had a hard day is such a small moment for you, but probably makes an incredible difference to them. When you see discrimination happening, saying something can stop it from going farther. Even simply reposting sucicide hotlines can save lives.
I encourage you to find an outlet in which you can use your voice; there are so many plat-forms. Writing for the newspaper is one way I use mine, but social media, protests, petitions, and debates are all great opportunities. And even beyond that, it is so important to say something when we see something. There is so much conflict in our world, so our voices are more powerful than ever.
The most common misconception is that we are “just kids.” We are far from “just” anything. We are the next generation of change, the next wave of hope, and the next chance for love and positivity. The world is at our fingertips, and together, we have the power to create change.
NW-07. Bylined Opinion Article
Article of personal opinion carrying the byline of the writer(s) presented in a style consistent with modern opinion column standards. The article should comment on a news or feature subject of interest (including sports) and/or concern to the readers, or may express dissent from the majority opinion expressed in editorials.
Judging Criteria
- Topic relevant to interests and/or welfare of school or students
- Wins reader interest with a compelling lead that urges action
- Presents evidence/interpretation in logical sequence
- States issue; uses effective examples, facts and comparisons to clarify
- Deals with specific issue; avoids preaching, rhetoric and cliches
- Shows sufficient thought and knowledge of subject, developed with personal style
- Proposes solution where appropriate
- Sentences, paragraphs of varied length; written clearly, concisely and vividly
- Proper diction/grammar