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DBW

Share Your Story, Shape Our Pages

The Literary Department of Dear Black Woman Magazine welcomes submissions from Black women across the globe—emerging voices, seasoned writers, poets, essayists, and creatives who have something to say and the courage to say it. This space is for us, by us—centered in truth, beauty, and the depth of our lived experiences.

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Each month, we accept themed literary submissions—fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and personal essays—based on a culturally aligned theme. We also feature timely articles on health, wellness, business, relationships, and culture, as well as event listings that align with our mission of empowerment, growth, and global connection.

MONTHLY THEMES

​Please allow 2-4 weeks for us to review your submission. We will notify you if your piece or event is selected for publication or promotion.

  • May – “Flower & Fire”

Inspired by Mother’s Day & Mental Health Awareness Month

A tribute to softness and strength—motherhood, mother figures, self-mothering, and mental wellness.

  • June – “Freedom in Full Color”

Inspired by Juneteenth, PRIDE, & Black Music Month
Pieces that explore liberation—musically, sexually, spiritual, creative, or cultural—through a Black female lens.

  • July – “Rooted in Resistance”

Inspired by Emancipation Day in many countries & U.S. Independence Day

Highlight protest, perseverance, pride, and reclaiming space in oppressive systems.

  • August – “She Who Builds Nations”

Inspired by Black Business Month & South Africa’s Women’s Day (Aug 9)

Celebrate entrepreneurship, leadership, and the economic power of Black women globally.

  • September – “Sacred Rhythms, Readings, & Writings”

Inspired by Back-to-School season, International Literacy Day,  & Self-Improvement Month

Explore books, authors, writings, rituals, routines, ancestral wisdom, or the rhythm of personal growth.

  • October – “Haunted, But Healing”

Inspired by Domestic Violence Awareness Month & Halloween

Write about the shadows—trauma, survival, fear—and the ongoing journey toward healing.

  • November – “Harvest of Her Hands”

Inspired by Thanksgiving & National Gratitude Month

Celebrate abundance, community nourishment, acts of giving, and the fruit of labor.

  • December – “Light Keeper”

Inspired by Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, & Year-End Reflections

Uplift stories about joy, spiritual connection, light in darkness, and what it means to be a bearer of legacy.

Monthly Literary Submissions (Writing Contest)

​We invite Black women writers to submit original literary works in response to our monthly themed prompt.

Submissions may include:

  • Short stories (fiction or creative nonfiction)

  • Essays or memoirs

  • Poetry (must meet word count requirement)

Submission Guidelines:

  • Word count: 500–1,500 words

  • Entry fee: $10 per submission

  • One submission per writer, per month

  • Include a short bio (50–100 words) and a high-resolution headshot

  • All entries must be original & unpublished anywhere. 

  • All entries must align with the posted theme of the month

Publication Details:

  • Up to 10 submissions will be featured on our digital platform

  • 3 winning entries will be selected for publication in our print magazine

  • All selected writers will receive full author credit and digital promotion

Article Submission Guidelines:

​We welcome thoughtful, original articles year-round (not part of the contest). Topics may include:

  • Health, Wellness & Nutrition

  • Global News

  • Politics & Policies

  • Business & Financial Empowerment

  • Culture, Beauty & Identity

  • Relationships & Sexual Health

  • Spirituality & Personal Growth

  • Personal narratives of resilience and transformation

  • We accept pieces ranging from 750 to 2000 words.

  • Must be original content, unpublished anywhere, & relevant to our audience. 

  • You must also disclose any brand/business affiliations. 

  • Please include a short bio (50-100 words) and a high-resolution headshot with your submission.

  • If you're submitting on behalf of a brand or business, please disclose this in your bio.

  • We accept pieces ranging from 500 to 1,500 words.

Event Submission Guidelines:

  • We feature events that align with our mission of empowerment, growth, and connection for Black women globally.

  • Include the event title, date, location (virtual or in-person), and a brief description (100-200 words).

  • You may also include promotional images or flyers.

  • ​You must include your contact information

Thank you for being a part of Dear Black Woman and contributing to our platform!

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