SIOUX CITY, Iowa – Morningside University recently announced the winners of the 2024 Human Rights Essay contest. Lauren Ellis was awarded first place with the essay: “My Child is Not for Sale: The Issues on Child Trafficking.” Emaly Kruse earned second place with the essay “Implanting Beauty Standards into Toddlers.”

The Morningside University Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee established the Human Rights Essay Contest in 2021 with the aim of fostering understanding and enhancement of universal human rights within the Morningside community. The contest, which takes place annually during the fall semester, serves as a platform for students to express their perspectives on human rights issues that resonate with them personally.

The contest aims to raise awareness and promote the inalienable rights to which every individual is entitled, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, or other status. The winners were revealed on the Friday preceding Human Rights Day, which falls on December 10 each year.

This significant day, established by the United Nations, commemorates the historic proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding human rights and advocating for their protection at all levels of society. Morningside University extends its congratulations to the winners and thanks all participants for their exceptional contributions.