By John Schwing

WESTPORT — In a world sharply divided by social and economic standards, a nation riven by polarized politics, and a town buffeted by a recent rash of racist graffiti, the chances of having a civil dialogue about anything — let alone cultural, community and identity differences — seem impossible.

But local high students were challenged by TEAM Westport, the town’s multi-cultural advocacy committee, to envision ways to do just that.

Entrants in this year’s Teen Diversity Essay Contest, sponsored by TEAM, were asked to tackle the thorny topic, “The Dialogue Challenge: Effective Engagement on Race, Ethnicity, Religion and LGBTQIA+.”  In short, write about personal interactions and ideas that could help bridge the chasms dividing society on a wide range of issues.

At a Tuesday evening ceremony in the Westport Library, winners of the 10th annual contest were announced. The three finalists read their essays and were presented with cash prizes.

First prize of $1,000 was presented to Annie Dizon, a Greens Farms Academy senior, for her essay, “Power Point as Pride.” The essay recounts her father’s experience immigrating to the U.S. from the Philippines and the acculturation challenges that he and his family have faced.

Second prize of $750 was awarded to Tyler Darden, a Staples High School senior, for “American Boy Doll.” The essay focuses on his journey to acceptance of being gay — personally and in broader social terms.

Third prize of $500 went to Savvy Dreas, a Greens Farms Academy junior, for “Learning Through Our Differences.” The essay reflects on how inter-cultural programs helped open her eyes to different perspectives on race and privilege.

TEAM Westport Chairman Harold Bailey Jr. congratulated the young essayists, saying he found their insights impressive.

Also congratulating the students were First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker and William Harmer, executive director of the library, which co-sponsored the essay contest.

The winning essays are expected to be posted in full on the TEAM Westport website.

John Schwing, the Westport Journal consulting editor, has held senior editorial and writing posts at southwestern Connecticut media outlets for four decades. Learn more about us here.