Write for Voices
Voices carries the Arizona Talks mission into writing: serious essays, lived perspective and public-minded arguments that help Arizona think more clearly about its future. We look for writing that is fact-based, cross-partisan and focused on Arizona.
To see the kind of writing we publish, read A new home for civic voices across Arizona by Jered Scrivner and Why I Stay in the Arena by Don Henninger.
What we publish
We publish clear, thoughtful essays that help Arizonans understand our state and our shared civic life. Write about the questions, ideas, experiences or perspectives that help Arizona think more deeply about its future. Good subjects include:
- Where Arizona 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. Any topic that adds to Arizona's civic conversation is welcome.
Voices isn't for promotion
Voices runs op-eds: your argument, in your own words, grounded in what you've seen. It isn't a place to promote an organization, program, product, event or campaign. Mention your work where it supports your argument, and put your affiliations in your bio.
Pieces that mainly describe or promote an organization's work belong on our Blog. If you're with an Arizona Talks partner, get in touch about a partner post.
Length
- Short takes: 350 to 600 words
- Standard essays: 800 to 1,200 words
We occasionally publish shorter reflections or longer essays.
Content standards
Voices is committed to civil, fact-based dialogue. We ask contributors to:
- Focus on ideas rather than personal attacks
- Support arguments with facts, data or credible sources when appropriate
- Avoid campaign messaging, endorsements and fundraising appeals
You're responsible for the accuracy and originality of your work. AI tools may be used for light editing or grammar, but the essay should reflect your own ideas, voice and perspective.
What to send
- Your name and title
- A short bio, two to three sentences
- A headshot
- A one-sentence summary of your essay's main idea
- If you like, a short video (MP4, MOV or WebM, up to 90MB) to support your submission
Review process
We respond to submissions within seven days. Accepted essays may get light editing or fact-checking for clarity and accuracy. You'll always review and approve edits before publication.
Rights
You keep full ownership of your work. Voices asks for 48 hours of exclusive publication. After that, you're welcome to republish your essay anywhere with attribution.
Contributor interest form
Tell us your topic, your writing background and the main idea of your essay. Include a headshot (JPG, PNG or WebP, up to 5MB) so our editors can review your submission.
