Page 14 - Sojourner Newsletter-SPRING 2022-5

14 THE SOJOURNER
2022 ESSAY CONTEST WINNERS

Prompt: Recovery from the challenges of 2020 and 2021 will require each of us to examine what we believe and how
each of us will make a difference in our country. As Adlai Stevenson said, “Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of
emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime.” As a young adult, what have you learned this past year
that will help you overcome the challenges in the future?

FIRST PLACE

Kathryn N. Robinson of Orlando, Florida was awarded First place and therefore will receive a $3,000 scholarship and a
National Sojourners Plaque. Seminole Chapter #373 sponsored Kathryn.

America is a story of perseverance. From the breaking away of Great Britain and establishing the world’s most
influential democracy to overcoming far-reaching challenges ranging from world wars to pushing for equality on the
homefront, America is story crafted by its people, ever searching for a more perfect union and always rising in the face
of adversity.
But this time, America was tested once again with the rapid transmission of Covid-19. In the face of hundreds of
thousands of deaths within the United States alone, lockdowns, and the large uncertainty surrounding the virus,
Americans as well as the rest of the world entered a silent war.
As we sat isolated from one another, many problems such as unemployment reached all time highs, and the need for
help was greater than ever before. Nevertheless, the call was answered, with millions extending kindness from sea to
shining sea, and the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. echoing loudly.
"Somewhere along the way, we must learn that there is nothing greater than to do something for others."
With my community struggling, I took these words to heart as I strived to make a difference. I began by creating care
baskets filled with non-perishable food items and blankets to donate to local shelters. Soon I started collecting and
making sanitary items and personal protective equipment for hospitals. Even with my actions, it wasn't the gratitude I
received from others, but the overwhelming sense of support within my community that made me aware of the sacrifices
that ordinary Americans make for the betterment of this nation as a whole.
The challenges of the previous years have only defined American exceptionalism as everyday pioneers, from
first-responders to next-door neighbors have all stood strong, definitely helping their communities in unprecedented
circumstances. This is what makes a difference. It is the small acts of care that extends beyond any race, religion,
ideology, but speaks to the idea of Americans being one.
Even in the face of challenge, when we all stand together and support one another for a common cause, there is nothing
the American people can't do. Perseverance is in our blood, and I am confident that my ability to serve by helping my
fellow Americans through rough times will help me when I need it the most. The system of America is one that gives as
long as you are willing to contribute.
Perhaps, the biggest thing I learned from this past year is that even when I fall, my neighbors will be there to support
me. This is what America is: a nation defined by its capacity for kindness and ability to always preserve, finding ways to
serve all Americans.

SECOND PLACE

Lauren Alexander of Tampa, Florida was awarded Second place and therefore will receive a $2,000 scholarship and a
National Sojourners Plaque. Seminole Chapter #373 sponsored Lauren.

The Intersectionality of COVID-19 and Disability Rights
Living in the midst of a global health crisis for the past two years has undoubtedly reshaped our collective worldview
significantly. One thing in particular has become grossly apparent to me during this pandemic; Our society simply does
not have enough consideration for the lives of the disabled.

Firstly, many people have downplayed the seriousness of the virus, including the importance of wearing masks and
practicing social distancing. Of course, this puts everyone’s lives in danger, but it disproportionately impacts those who
are medically vulnerable. According to data from April 2020, almost 40% of U.S. adults are at risk of serious illness if
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infected with COVID-19 because of their age or preexisting medical conditions. Personally, I would expect this reality
to be met with compassion from the general population. Instead, I have heard countless people dismiss the virus by
saying something to the effect of “well it can’t be that dangerous because it only kills the elderly and