Rondo: History & Values Anthology

 
 

We are excited to announce our Rondo: History & Values Anthology.

PROMPT: How do you live out the Rondo Values?

Submit using this form.

Deadline Extended: October 10, 2024

 

This writing competition aims to raise awareness about the history and values of the Rondo community and inspire Black literary artists to use the arts to create social change.

THE CORE VALUES OF THE RONDO COMMUNITY

As of 2020, Data USA revealed that 6.11% of the nation’s literary artists are Black or African American. This reveals a cultural need to foster absent narratives and preserve culture. This project addresses that by creating space for storytelling while also addressing the need for literary artists in the Black community.


 
 

Rondo Spirit

By the 1930s, the majority of the African American residents called Rondo home as did critical community businesses, organizations, and institutions.

In the late 1950s, the tight-knit community and economic hub were shattered by the construction of I-94. It split the Rondo neighborhood and forced the evacuation and relocation of hundreds of people and businesses.  One in every eight African Americans in St. Paul lost a home to I-94. Many businesses never re-opened.

Since that time, the Rondo spirit has continued to live on.


 

We welcome submissions from those:

  • living in Saint Paul

  • of African American Heritage

  • of all ages

We welcome less than 1,000 words from any of these categories:

  • fiction or creative fiction

  • prose or poetry

Writing prompts:

  • How do you live out the Rondo values? (Core Rondo values HERE)

  • What is one leadership action you can take to strengthen the Rondo community?

25 winners will receive:

  • $100

  • a copy of the published book

 
 
 
 
 
 

To support the writing journey, you’ll find tips and inspiration in the videos below.