Waynesburg University has concluded its annual “Banned Books Writing Contest.” The contest entails those who sign up to create a piece of writing about one’s experiences in a fictional city called Censor. The content should be written similar to that of a journal entry, acting as a letter for someone back on earth. 

When it came to the purpose of the event, Stefanie Wielkopolan, who acts as a Professional Tutor for the Writing Center, as well as the main contact and the judge for the contest, sees the goal of the event as “bringing awareness to students about censorship and the banning of books.” 

“We want our community to come together and celebrate the written word through the contest, and to reflect on the detrimental effects of silencing a person’s words,” Wielkopolan said.

When it came to what type of content in the form of banned books that would be used for the contest, Wielkopolan seemed to go after a more relatable, yet not heavily covered perspective. 

“We typically highlight the most commonly banned books within the past few years,” Wielkopolan said. “Many of these books are about characters who struggle with being accepted in society. Most books focus on LGBTQIA+ characters and the experiences of marginalized characters. We want to place the focus on characters who deserve to be heard, seen, and validated.” 

Wielkopolan also mentioned how the contest involved hiding several banned books on campus for the students to find. Some of the novels include: And Tango Makes Thre, Maus, The Hate U Give, The Bluest Eye.

Wielkopolan emphasized those involved, which most prominently included the English Department, including the Department Chair and Writing Center Director Professor Jill Sunday. Sunday worked closely with Wielkopolan to get the contest off the ground.

Despite all of the effort that goes into hosting such an event every year, Wielkopolan seems to take it as nothing short of a great passion. 

“Banned Books Week and the Banned Books Writing Contest are extremely important to us at the Writing Center,” Wielkopolan said. “Many of us are writers ourselves and we believe that everyone’s words, ideas, and thoughts should be respected. We want people to know that they are important, their lives and words matter, and that we are here to listen.”