In the fall of 2005, a Danish newspaper published a series of satirical cartoons about the prophet Muhammad. The publication led to outrage among some fundamentalists and threats of violence.

The Museum responded to these current events by channeling the powerful visual medium of "satirical cartoons" toward a positive purpose. The Caretoons program invites young people and adults to create original artistic works expressing their personal vision of positive character. The aim is to raise awareness that, regardless of our background, country or creed, there are core values, like peace, friendship, tolerance, justice, faith, and courage, which unite us.

Each year, the compelling artistic messages are exhibited at the Museum in Philadelphia and online for the whole world to see and be inspired.

The 2010 Caretoons contest received more than 2,000 original entries by young people and adults, from 48 US states and 37 countries.

Using art forms to express positive character motivates students to reflect and connect with core values through personally meaningful, creative, and fun activities. Your students (and you!) can work on the Caretoons activities at school or at home, using virtually any media, from colored pencil to computer graphics. See more of the top entries, and submit your entry to this year's contest.