Queer Adventurers proudly hosts an LGBTQ writing contest every year.
The theme of the contest changes each year.
The purpose is the same: to inspire others by sharing true stories of LGBTQ adventure travel.
The LGBTQ travel landscape is dominated by stories about safety and exclusion. We are often told not to go somewhere – or if we venture off the beaten path, we’re encouraged to hide our true selves “for safety’s sake.”
There may be times when this advice is in our best interests.
But other times, it’s limiting.
I started Queer Adventurers to increase the media representation of queerness within travel – and I started the essay contest to build a community around our stories and pay queer writers.
Keep reading for the contest guidelines, including how to submit.
The submissions link is ONLY active when our annual contest is running.
Newsletter subscribers get early notice of the contest theme as well as tips on what makes a winning essay. Sign up here to be in the first to know.
LGBTQ Writing Contest Guidelines
Eligibility
We are looking for 1,000 to 1,500 word personal essays. All stories must be true – no fiction.
All submissions must connect to the chosen theme and center your LGBTQIA identity. This means more than a passing mention of a sexuality or gender identity. We want to see LGBTQIA identities woven into the stories.
All submissions must come from an LGBTQIA author.
Allies can support the contest by sharing the link with a friend, or by supporting this site with a one-time donation through PayPal or Ko-fi.
Contest Theme
This year, we’re looking for stories that explore Border Crossings.
Tell us about an international journey that changed your life.
Interpret the theme metaphorically and tell us how your gender expression or sexuality transgresses borders.
Write about how sexuality and gender identity impact your ability to cross borders freely.
II can’t wait to see what you come up with!
How to Submit
- Submissions to be posted: June 1 – October 31, 2024
- Deadline for submissions: October 31, 2024
- Contest open to all writers worldwide over the age of 18; however stories must be in English
- Stories must be previously unpublished. Stories that were previously published on a blog, Instagram, etc. are ineligible, as are stories written with AI.
- One submission per writer is allowed, thanks! Submissions that exceed this work count will be deemed ineligible, as will multiple submissions from a single writer.
For submissions: CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR ESSAY. If this link does not work, the contest deadline has passed.
Cash prizes
- First place – $150
- Second place – $50 cash prize
- Finalist(s) – No cash prize, but essay(s) will published in Queer Adventurers
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the winner announced? The winner, runner up and finalists are announced in November via the email list.
How do I get paid? Prizes are paid via PayPal or Venmo only.
Do I have to use my name? You may submit a pseudonym, if you do not wish for the essay to be published under your name.
Is the word count strict? Yes. Essays that exceed the word count will be disqualified.
What makes a winning essay? Winning essays center the contest theme and the author’s LGBTQIA identity. Read winning essays on previous themes, Firsts and Shelter.
