Pitches (DC)

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.