Pitches wanted (DC) | ~15+ cents per word

COMPANY/PUBLICATION: 51ST NEWS

We’re writing to let you know about a change coming to our opinion pages…we’re ramping them up! And one thing we won’t do? Publish anything that opposes our guiding editorial belief that all D.C. residents deserve a more equitable and just city.

What we’re looking for: clear and concise arguments with obvious local ties, voice-driven writing, and topics that speak to either a timely news event or culturally relevant question (or, engage with existing conversations in a new way.)

What we don’t want: PR-speak, AI-speak, meandering and unfocused arguments, regurgitations of arguments made by someone else already, or 2,000 words on a personal gripe that’s best home is in a journal.

If you’ve got ideas, pitch us at pitches@51st.news. We offer a flat fee to contributors whose opinion pieces are not connected to their paid employment. And if you want to support Bezos-free media, sign-up to be a member today.

Here’s an example of a recent opinion essay we published: https://51st.news/opinion-a-capital-pride-board-member-becoming-a-trump-appointee-should-ring-alarm-bells/

NOTE: Based on their rate sheet, opinion/commentary is paid $150 for 1,000 words or less.

CONTACT INFORMATION (please do not share the email address publicly):

• Questions/submissions: pitches@51st.news

• Website: https://51st.news/

TO HELP YOU CRAFT YOUR PITCH:

• Learn more about the publication: The 51st is a worker-led nonprofit newsroom that publishes local news and information relevant to Washington, D.C. residents. It covers topics such as local politics, community events, and social issues, featuring articles, explainers, and opinion pieces. The publication aims to provide information with representation, by and for D.C. residents. More information here.

• Read through a selection of recent opinion pieces on its website.

• Review the submission guidelines here. Note that these are the publication's general guidelines to help you refine your pitch. You must still follow the editor's specific instructions above.

• Check out our collection of pitch excerpts on this page and find more sample pitches at The Open Notebook and at SuccessfulPitches.com.

• Do not forget to end your pitch with (1) a short introduction about yourself; (2) a few lines highlighting your writing experience, relevant credentials and publication credits; and (3) links to your strongest work or portfolio, and online profile.

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