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"The best word shakers were the ones who understood the true power of words. They were the ones who could climb the highest."
-Markus Zusak (from The Book Thief)
Dear Writers,
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Here is a fact: if you are reading this, then you are alive. And if you are alive, then you have a story to tell.
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My name is Anne Rong. I am the Editor-in-Chief of The New Courant. The New Courant is a non-profit publication for youth opinion writing. Simply put, I founded this organization because I believe in the power of words. I believe that every young person has a story to tell, an opinion to share, a voice that matters. I want to ensure that every one of those voices is heard.
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A couple of days ago, I went to an author talk. And at the very end of the event, I heard one line that stuck with me. "Your story matters," she said. "People need to hear your story."
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So, to you out there, whoever you are: the world needs to hear what you have to say! Think of what makes your blood boil, what you long to see change, what you wish others could understand. Write an editorial about it! And most importantly, believe in the power of your words.
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Anne Rong
Guidelines
Here are a few of the key features we want to see in a great opinion essay.
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Provides a unique perspective and/or elevates a fresh, otherwise lesser-known topic
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Makes an argument and supports it
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Includes a personal connection
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Roughly 700-1000 words
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We NEVER publish opinion essays that promote any of the following.
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hate speech
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slurs
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self-harm
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violence
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illegal substance use
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tobacco, marijuana, or alcohol use
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See How to Write an Opinion Essay for more detailed suggestions and a step-by-step guide.
How to Submit
Use the form below to send us a finished draft of your opinion essay.
In the "Your Words" field, please include:
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What you hope readers will think, feel, and do after reading your essay
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Why your essay is timely
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Who your are and why you should be the one to tell this story
Attach your essay as a pdf.
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Include a pen name if you do not want your essay to be published under your real name.
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You must be between 13 and 21 years of age to submit an essay. Your essay must be original and never plagiarized from someone else. You must include your full name when you submit an essay, but when we publish your essay, you may choose to use a pen name. If you are under 18 years of age, you must have permission from a parent or guardian to send us a submission. For more information, see our privacy policy.