Submissions

Last updated: March 30, 2025

Editorial Guidelines for TaiwaneseAmerican.org

Overview: TaiwaneseAmerican.org seeks to amplify the stories of the Taiwanese American community through diverse perspectives, interviews, and other features. We aim to promote thought-provoking, engaging, and reflective content that explores personal experiences, history, culture, and social issues.

Types of Submissions:

  1. Perspectives Pieces
     These articles offer personal reflections, analysis, or commentary on a topic related to the Taiwanese American experience, such as identity, activism, community, or cultural heritage. 
  2. Q&As/Interviews
     These feature conversations with individuals who have made notable contributions to the Taiwanese American community. The focus is on their personal stories, insights, and perspectives on relevant cultural, social, or political topics. 
  3. Other Features
     These may include in-depth stories, creative pieces, or explorations of Taiwanese American culture, history, and contemporary issues. 

Submission Guidelines:

  1. Word Count:
  • Perspectives Pieces: 800–1,500 words.
  • Q&As/Interviews: 1,000–1,500 words.
  • Other Features: 1,500–2,500 words (flexible depending on topic). 
  1. Tone and Voice:
  • Write in a clear, accessible, and engaging manner.
  • Use inclusive language that reflects the diverse experiences within the Taiwanese American community.
  • Aim for a thoughtful, reflective, and respectful tone, especially when addressing sensitive topics. We encourage writers to weave in personal narrative alongside broader cultural or political insights. 
  1. Content Guidelines:
  • Relevance: The piece should focus on themes relevant to Taiwanese American identity, history, or the broader diaspora.
    Authenticity: We prioritize content that is rooted in lived experiences and authentic storytelling.
    Respect and Sensitivity: Given the diverse perspectives within the community, approach topics with empathy and respect. Avoid generalizations or stereotypes.
  • Source Accuracy: When referencing historical events, cultural practices, or quotes from interviews, ensure that sources are accurate and verifiable. 
  1. Interviewees (for Q&As):
  • When submitting a Q&A/interview, ensure that the person being interviewed has consented to be featured and indicate whether you already have a direct connection
  • Provide a brief bio of the interviewee to give context to their insights. 
  1. Visuals and Multimedia:
  • If submitting accompanying photos, please ensure they are high-quality and properly credited. We highly recommend submitting photos whenever possible and appropriate.
  • If you would like to include your bio/links to your website or other work, please include these in your draft!

Next Steps and Compensation:

  1. Submission Process:
  • Submit your draft or pitch via email to leona@taiwaneseamerican.org. If submitting a pitch, include a brief outline of your piece, your bio, and a sample of previous writing (if applicable).
  • The editorial team will review the submission and provide feedback or approval. If accepted, we will discuss any necessary revisions. 
  1. Compensation:
  • We offer compensation for all accepted submissions. The flat rate is $85; at this time, we do not subsidize additional expenses (e.g., travel, transcribing, etc.). Please let Leona know if you have any questions or concerns
  • Payment will be made after the piece is published, via the preferred payment method (e.g., PayPal, which is our preference, or mailed check). Payments are disbursed quarterly (i.e., all submissions received between January and March are compensated in early April) 
  1. Timeline:
  • Pitch Review: Within 7–10 days of submission.
  • Final Submission Review: If the piece is accepted, expect a review period of 1–2 weeks. During this period, the editorial team may suggest edits for clarity, style, or accuracy.
  • Publication: Once finalized, the piece will be scheduled for publication. We aim to publish pieces within 3–4 weeks of final approval. 
  1. Revisions and Edits:
  • The editor may request revisions, which may include content adjustments for clarity, accuracy, or style. We strive to preserve the author’s voice while ensuring consistency with our publication’s guidelines. 

Additional Notes:

  • We encourage writers to familiarize themselves with previous content on TaiwaneseAmerican.org to understand the style, tone, and types of topics we cover.
  • If you are interested in submitting a recurring column or series, please reach out to the editorial team for further discussion. 

By adhering to these guidelines, you help us maintain the integrity and relevance of the content shared on TaiwaneseAmerican.org while also supporting the diverse voices within the Taiwanese American community. We look forward to your contributions!