Beachwood Middle School Students Named Stop the Hate Finalists

Beachwood Schools congratulates seventh grader Farai Chiunda and eighth grader Abby Gourley on being named finalists in the 2025 Stop the Hate Contest. This year, 4,419 students from more than 160 Northeast Ohio schools participated in the contest and workshops, submitting essays, poems, or group songs for a chance to win scholarships, educational grants, and prizes for themselves and their schools.

The Maltz Museum’s Stop the Hate contest encourages personal storytelling to build empathy and understanding in students in grades six through 12. Through this initiative, students explore issues of discrimination, bullying, and hate while learning how to create positive change in their communities.

“Being a finalist has made me more confident in my writing,” says Farai. Her essay underscores the importance of valuing names as part of cultural identity and calls for greater inclusion through correct name pronunciation. “I’m happy that my story connected with others,” she says. “I hope it makes people think about the importance of names and respect.”

Abby’s essay explores her growing awareness of gender-based harassment and societal beauty standards. She highlights the importance of creating supportive communities to challenge harmful perceptions and empower women. “It is an honor to receive an award that gives young people the opportunity to advocate for things that are important to us. We can showcase our voices through our writing and hopefully inspire others,” says Abby.

Winners will be named on Thursday, April 3, at an awards ceremony at the Tri-C Cuyahoga Community College. The community is invited to attend this free event. Seating is limited and advanced registration is required at: www.maltzmuseum.org/events.