Literacy council accepting submissions for annual bell hooks writing contest

The bell hooks Memorial Writing Contest is back for its fifth year, and the Christian County Literacy Council is inviting writers across the world to submit pieces focused on the theme of “community.”

Gloria Watkins, better known by her pen name bell hooks, was an acclaimed author, social theorist and educator who was born in Hopkinsville. She passed away in 2021, but throughout her career, she published over 40 books that highlight her upbringing and explore race and feminism.

Literacy Council Executive Director Francene Gilmer says that following Watkins’ death, her family made a donation to the council. With those funds, Gilmer says they wanted to memorialize Watkins, which led to the creation of the writing contest.

Unlike the past writing contests, Literacy Council Secretary Mari-Alice Jasper says the contest is open to everyone in the world, because bell hooks had a worldwide impact. The contest is divided into four categories: ages 5 to 8, ages 9 to 12, ages 13 to 17 and adults, and Jasper says a winner will be recognized in each category.

Writers are invited to submit poetry, long and short essays and short stories surrounding the theme of “community.” Gilmer says the submissions will be published in a physical book that can be purchased.

Gilmer knew Watkins personally and says it means a lot to her to remember her through the writing contest.

Those interested in submitting their pieces can scan the QR code on the flyer, and the deadline is January 15, 2026.