Arizona Talks Voices
Bring an argument worth reading.
Voices is where Arizona Talks extends its civic mission into written form: serious essays, lived perspective, and public-minded arguments that help Arizona think more clearly about its future.
Set the tone
Read the first two Voices essays to see the kind of writing we want to publish.
Submission Guidelines
1. What We Publish
We publish clear, thoughtful essays that help Arizonans better understand our state and our shared civic life. Contributors are encouraged to write about questions, ideas, experiences, or perspectives that help Arizona think more deeply about its future.
Essays should focus on:
- The future of Arizona: where our state is headed and what it could become
- Civic leadership and lessons from public, business, or community life
- Public policy shaping Arizona's future
- Perspectives from your community, profession, or lived experience
- Arizona's culture, identity, and history
- Democracy, elections, and the institutions that sustain public trust
These are only guideposts. Authors are welcome to explore any topic that contributes thoughtfully to Arizona's civic dialogue.
2. Length
- Short Takes: 350–600 words
- Standard Essays: 800–1,200 words
We occasionally publish shorter reflections or longer essays.
3. Content Standards
Arizona Talks Voices is committed to civil, fact-based dialogue. We ask contributors to follow a few basic principles:
- Focus on ideas rather than personal attacks
- Support arguments with facts, data, or credible sources when appropriate
- Avoid campaign messaging, endorsements, or fundraising appeals
Authors are responsible for the accuracy and originality of their work. AI tools may be used for light editing or grammar, but essays should reflect the author's own ideas, voice, and perspective.
4. What to Include with Your Submission
- Your name and title
- A short author bio (two to three sentences)
- A headshot
- A one-sentence summary of your essay's main idea
- Optionally, a short video (MP4, MOV, or WebM, max 90MB) to support your submission
5. Review Process
We'll respond to submissions within seven days. Accepted essays may receive light editing or fact-checking to ensure clarity and accuracy. Authors will always have the opportunity to review and approve edits before publication.
6. Rights
Authors retain full ownership of their work. Arizona Talks Voices asks for forty-eight hours of exclusive publication, after which authors are welcome to republish their essays anywhere with attribution.
Contributor Interest
Contributor Interest Form
Share your topic focus, writing background, and essay summary. Please also include a headshot (JPG, PNG, or WebP, max 5MB) so our editorial team can review your submission. You may also include a short optional video (max 90MB).