Introduction to the Foley MLK Jr. Oratory Competition
The city of Houston is home to a meaningful tradition that has been honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for 30 years. The Foley MLK Jr. Oratory Competition is a celebration of Dr. King’s message, and it’s an event where fourth- and fifth-grade students from across Houston ISD come together to deliver original speeches centered on hope, justice, and what they believe Dr. King’s message would be for our world today.
The Competition
The students write and memorize speeches that are three to five minutes long, tackling big ideas with confidence, heart, and courage. This year, the competition is being led by Scott Ellis, the managing partner of Foley and Lardner’s Houston office, who is serving as the event emcee for the first time. Ellis has been involved with the competition for many years and is now carrying the torch after the retirement of longtime chair and founder Claude Treece.
Importance of the Competition
Ellis shared why it is so important that this competition continues to live in Houston. He says watching students participate year after year is inspiring, not just for their families and schools, but for the entire community. Many past participants credit the competition with building confidence and shaping their future paths as leaders. The competition is a reminder that leadership can start at any age, and it’s an opportunity for young people to make their voices heard.
Meet the Finalists
One of this year’s finalists is fourth-grader Stormii Olezene from Blackshear Elementary School. Stormii says being part of the competition matters to her because Dr. King showed love, support, and the importance of standing up for what is right. Like many students, she admits speaking in front of people can be nerve-racking, but preparation is key. Stormii shared that she limits distractions, steps away from electronics, and practices her speech repeatedly to make sure it is fully memorized.
Inspiration and Support
Stormii also draws inspiration from her close friend Montoia Murray, the competition’s first-ever back-to-back champion in 2024 and 2025. Murray has encouraged Stormii throughout the process, reminding her to believe in herself and represent her school with pride. During the competition, Stormii delivered a powerful excerpt from her speech, reminding viewers that unity makes us stronger and that Dr. King’s message lives not just in speeches, but in all of us.
The Venue
The competition takes place at the historic Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, a pillar in Houston’s community and the first church established by formerly enslaved people. Antioch is celebrating its own milestone this year, marking 160 years, and has hosted the oratory competition since its early days.
Conclusion
The Foley MLK Jr. Oratory Competition is a celebration of Dr. King’s legacy and a reminder that young people have the power to make a difference. The competition is a unique opportunity for students to develop their public speaking skills, build confidence, and learn about the importance of social justice. By honoring Dr. King’s message, the competition inspires young people to become leaders and change-makers in their communities. The event can be streamed online, and it’s an opportunity for everyone to be inspired by the powerful voices of Houston’s youngest leaders.
