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Working with incarcerated writers in any capacity requires different engagement practices than those generally found in most submission guidelines today.

If you are seeking to invite writers in prison to participate or publish in any literary, media, or arts-related opportunity, use the resources found in the Learn section of this website to make sure your submission guidelines meet facility standards. Then, submit your call for submissions using the form below.

Submitted calls will be screened by PEN America and published to this page for loved ones, networks, and organizations to share with writers in prison. Three times a year, calls will also be printed in a newsletter format and sent inside to incarcerated writers affiliated with PEN America’s Prison and Justice Writing Program.

Submit an Opportunity for Writers

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Writers in prison do not have access to the Internet and often do not have the ability to procure sample copies of the publication. Please provide a brief description of this publication to share with writers.

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Provide complete genre-specific guidelines, including word/page limits, submission periods, response times, and payment. If this is a themed issue or another unique opportunity, please describe it further here.

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If the provided URL contains comprehensive submission guidelines accompanied by a mailing address, there is no need to complete the remainder of this form.

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Unfortunately, writers in prison will not be able to access Internet-based submission platforms. We suggest setting up a PO Box to receive paper mail from incarcerated writers.

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Writers in prison have little ability to pay people from inside. We suggest waiving submission fees for incarcerated writers.