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This contest is now closed!
Are you a storyteller with a passion for exploring the complexities of the human experience? Do you have a story inside you that challenges, celebrates, or redefines the narratives surrounding disability? We want to hear from you!
We’re thrilled to announce an open-genre writing contest centered on characters facing physical, emotional, and/or mental challenges that affect their lives, looking at the struggles, the triumphs, the intricacies, and the infinite stories that lie within the heart of people and characters like these.
Submission Guidelines:
- Theme: Disability (its lived experiences, representation, or exploration in any form)
- Word Count: Between 5,000 and 10,000 words
- Genre: Open (let your creativity take the lead!)
- Deadline: May 17th, 2025
- Eligibility: Open to writers of all backgrounds and experience levels
Disclaimer: We are looking for stories that treat individuals, no matter the impairment, with dignity and respect. We do not want to see stories meant only as “inspiration porn,” or that infantilize/demonize the characters or use them only as the subject of humor.
Why Submit?
This contest is more than a chance to showcase your talent—it’s an opportunity to contribute to meaningful representation and conversation around disabled individuals.
Selected stories will receive:
1. Recognition: Winners will be featured on Disenfranchised Writers’ Voices and shared with a wide audience.
2. Evaluation: All submissions will receive a short manuscript evaluation from a developmental editor.
3. Prizes:
- 1st place will receive a developmental edit of their story by Lofty Wings Press LLC (https://loftywingspress.com/)
- 2nd place will receive custom cover art designed by LKJ Books (https://lkjbooks.com)
- 3rd place will receive a portrait art piece by Pain and Paintings (painandpaintings.carrd.co)
4. Ownership: Story rights are not relinquished. Writers retain full rights to their stories. DWV will have a one-time use of the story for a website feature.
5. Impact: Be part of a movement that challenges stereotypes and fosters inclusivity through the power of words.
How to Enter
- Submission is $15 per entry. Multiple entries permitted.
- Submissions must not have been published previously.
- Submit your manuscript in a google doc or .doc format to submissions@disenfranchisedwritersvoices.net
- Include a brief bio and your contact information in your email.
- Write your story with heart, authenticity, and creativity.
Payments can be made to: A donation made through our Kofi. Messages should include it’s for the writing competition. KoFi or our Paypal at disenfranchisedwritersvoices@gmail.com
Submit your story today and let your words create waves!