On the occasion of the "Month of Francophonie-March 2013," and in partnership with the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie and the Bureau de la Martinique, the French Heritage Language Program is organizing a big writing contest for all its high school students in New York and Florida.

This contest will celebrate the 100th birthday of great Martinique writer Aimé Césaire and one of the most powerful pieces of French literature dedicated to freedom and democracy. Students will prepare for the contest throughout February and submit a written composition on the week of March 4th. An independent jury presided by famous writer Maryse Condé will then anonymously select the winners and announce results by March 15th.

Prizes will include one trip to Martinique Island, dozens of e-book readers, 50 tickets to Haitian artist BelO's concert on March 20th in New York, and many more surprises!

Martinique-born Aimé Césaire was a major figure of the "Negritude" literary movement and a staunch advocate of anti-colonization. As we enter "Black History month," Césaire's work offers a perfect approach to understanding the history of the African diaspora and, more largely, the many human rights issues facing the world today.

Download our brochure : Sur Les Traces d'Aimé Césaire

Eligibility:

This contest is open to all high school students registered in a French Heritage Language Program in New York City and Florida. Registration and contest details available with your French Heritage teacher.

For more information please contact the French Heritage Language Program at heritageprogram@facecouncil.org