PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — A local company is holding its annual essay contest to celebrate Black History.

The contest is the brainchild of Bynum’s Marketing & Communication. This is the 19th year for the event.

“Our concept was that throughout the years many organizations salute African-American history, but they really don’t really teach anything,” says Russell Bynum, “and we felt that we wanted to do something that would help encourage young people to learn more about African-American history, but also encourage them to understand the value of every human being.”

Nathaniel Barbour, a student at Central Catholic High School, says this contest stands out from others.

“Part of what I like is that it’s something different,” he said. “Different people associated with it each year and I can find information about someone that’s, someone who I would probably would not take the time on my own to investigate.”

Bynum says it’s important to pass on the lessons of black history.

“Each generation needs to learn this history and often time in our schools system or throughout what we see in the media we don’t get that other side – we don’t get the positive contributions that the African-American community has made to this society,” he said.

The contest is open to children ages six to 18. Winners in each age group will receive $500. Entry forms can be found at www.blackhistorypassiton.com.