Witness

Submitting your work

Witness accepts submissions of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and visual art on a rolling basis, though reading periods may vary. Before submitting, carefully review the full guidelines on their website, paying close attention to genre-specific word limits and formatting requirements. The editors value work that is politically and socially engaged, but they are equally committed to craft; avoid polemic in favor of nuanced, artful exploration. Simultaneous submissions are generally accepted, but notify them immediately if your work is placed elsewhere. Include a brief cover letter that contextualizes your submission without over-explaining. Response times can be lengthy, so patience is advised. Above all, read several issues of Witness to understand the range and tenor of what they publish—this is the best way to gauge whether your work aligns with their editorial vision.

Please browse previous issues before you submit. Past online issues are available for free on our website.