Acacia Magazine is a publication worth pitching
The fifth issue's theme is "Age of Intelligence."
Acacia Magazine, a literary and culture print magazine for the Muslim Left, is currently taking essay and feature pitches for its fifth issue. The theme is “Intelligence,” with a focus on how tech is shaping Muslim communities. Read more about the theme here, but even if you have an off-theme pitch, please write to me or to submissions@acaciamag.com.
“Issue 05: intelligence: We want your stories about how Muslim communities are being shaped by tech. We’re interested in the concept of Muslim Futurity. What role are technology, AI, and surveillance playing in the evolution of our society? How are labor, democracy, and creative industries implicated? How do these factors shape the possibilities for Muslim communities? What are the reasons our readers should pay heed to an emerging technology, trend or even app? These questions are meant to inform your thinking, but you don’t need to answer them all in your pitch. What we do want you to answer: why this story, why now, and why you? Note we’re not currently taking personal essay submissions, poetry submissions, or short fiction submissions. And as always, if you have a tip unrelated to the theme, please email us with “scoop” in the subject line. We can’t wait to hear from you”
I’ve been an editor for the magazine since the very first issue and it’s been my great honor and pride to collaborate, commission, and edit with a range of new and experienced writers. I’ve been covering American Muslims for nearly a decade now; Acacia is the project that currently best reflects my values and interests. I tend to edit the culture pieces and reporting on American Muslim communities, but I’ve learned so much from all of our editors.
For my part, I use it as a way to stay behind-the-scenes and help mentor, develop, and advance the rigor of journalism covering American Muslims. We’ve featured writers like Fariha Roisin, Mona Chalabi, Shamira Ahmed, myself, and many more. The best way to familiarize yourself with our writing is to read the magazine. Pieces can be found online here.
Issue 04, which was focused on local reporting, is releasing this month. I know, you’re already being asked to subscribe to this platform. BUT: If you have appreciated my writing, please consider subscribing to Acacia as well. For $45 dollars a year, you will get an annual membership which includes “two (2) print issues sent directly to you, priority access to digital content, and free access to events.”
The print issues are absolutely gorgeous. I wrote a seriously indulgent piece for Issue 1 about the Marvel’s X-Men, separatism, and Muslims as a metaphor for difference. Afterwards, I hung up some of the gorgeous commissioned art by Zak Tebbal in my living room.
Finally, I’m always open to be connected to writers of all skill levels. Please consider pitching issue 05 or sending me recommendations of thoughtful people who are interested in exploring American Muslims, tech, and culture. I am happy to take any and all calls or questions to help potential writers decide whether it’s a good fit.
Beforehand, I suggest checking out the submissions guide first. Pitches due by November 21st; payment rates can be found on the website.
Glad you are back in the game!