Do the Write Thing (DtWT) 2024

What is the Do the Write Thing Challenge?

Do the Write Thing (DtWT) is a national writing program that gives middle school students the chance to speak out about how violence affects their lives and share their ideas about what must be done to stop it. This program allows the students to become community catalysts, as they examine the root causes and impact of youth violence. The Office of the Attorney General has sponsored the program since 2015. Annually, OAG selects two students to serve as Washington DC.’s National Ambassadors, based on their writing. The Ambassadors are honored at the DtWT National Recognition Week in Washington, DC, where they meet with other student ambassadors, senators, and congressmen for discussion on youth violence issues. A book of the writings of each city’s Ambassadors is inducted in United States Library of Congress.

Students Write, We Listen.

The Office of the Attorney General is committed to listening to community members and collaborating with local leaders, and that includes our young people. Each year, students are rising to the challenge of doing something to end youth violence through powerful writings. Through classroom discussions and writings, students communicate what they think should be done to reduce youth violence. In addition, they make personal commitments to do something about this problem.

"We as a community can stop youth violence by showing kids better things in life."

"Social media, rappers, family, and the community have poorly influenced this young generation."

"I feel unprotected when walking to school because you don't know what could happen."

"I know that [my Dad] wouldn't want me crying but I can't help it. He was one of my heroes that I will never forget."

 Below are guidelines and resources about the challenge.

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