Letter-Writing Students Engaged In Campaign

INDIANAPOLIS -- As he accepts the Democratic nomination for president, Sen. Barack Obama's speech at the Democratic National Convention Thursday and the Republican National Convention next week mark an historic and instructive time in American politics.

Some Indianapolis Public Schools students are taking part in a national writing project sponsored by Internet giant Google.

Arlington High School English teacher Nikia Garland saw the contest between Obama and Republican Sen. John McCain as a way to use current events to inspire her students, 6News' Derrik Thomas reported.

Whitney Frieson fine-tuned her letter Thursday because first drafts are due on Friday.

"Dear Barack Obama, I'm a young African-American high school student. I'm sending out thanks to you for your courage," Frieson's letter read. "You give hope to all African-Americans today for a brighter future."

A few students in Garland's class are registered to vote, and there is still time to get registered for others who are old enough.

Dominique Kennedy said he is an Obama supporter, but he is writing letters to both candidates because he has a tremendous amount of respect for McCain.

"I appreciate you and your service to the country," Kennedy's letter read. "I respect anyone who guards the walls as I sleep at night."

Many of the students didn't immediately embrace the letter-writing campaign but are warming to the challenge.

"I think it is about them capturing their voice, once they realize they actually have a voice and people want to hear it," Garland said. "That makes them more responsive."

Final drafts of the letters are due on Oct. 30. Candidates will have access to them, as they will be on Google's site.