How will my work be judged?
A panel of judges will evaluate all submissions based on overall creativity, originality and relevance to the undocumented experience.
How should I decide what to submit?
You should submit work that you feel proud of and that represents your artistic skill and creativity. It is always a good idea to get feedback from a third party. Ultimately, the decision on what to submit is yours.
If I have multiple pieces I would like to submit, how do I decide?
Multiple submissions are accepted. However, an individual may only submit one piece per medium. Again, you should submit work that you feel proud of and that represents your artistic skill and creativity.
Does my piece have to be about being undocumented?
Yes, although this can be expressed in an indirect way. The goal is to shed light on what it is like to grow up as undocumented in the United States. Take a look at the work throughout this website for examples. You may chose to convey any of these themes: life in your home country, how you came to the United States, first memories of life in the United States, wanting to be accepted as American, fears of living in the shadows, your education, your future, and the intersections between your immigrant identity and other parts of your identity.
If I am no longer undocumented, can I still apply?
We are expecting submissions from people who are very close to the undocumented experience. This can include people who were formerly undocumented and/or people who have family members and loved ones who are undocumented.
Can I remain anonymous?
In order to qualify for the contest award, you must disclose your real name, and a telephone and email address where we can contact you. However, you may decide to use a pseudonym if your piece is selected for publication on the website.
How old do I have to be to apply?
Submissions will be accepted from everyone, regardless of age. All submissions will be judged the same.
How long until I find out if my work has been selected?
Awardees will be contacted and announced by the end of October 2012.
If my work is selected, what rights do you have to use it?
If your work is nominated for an award, we will contact you and request your permission to publish it on the website. We will get your permission before using your work on our website or on any other platforms. You will maintain full rights and ownership to all of your work.
If my work is not selected, what rights do you have to use it?
If your work is not selected for an award, we will still consider it for publication on the website. If we would like to publish your work, we will contact you to get your consent. You will maintain full rights and ownership to all of your work.
If my work is not selected, can I still submit to the website?
Submissions to the website are only accepted during open submission periods. Subscribe or check back periodically to stay informed about future submission periods.
I still have questions, How can I contact you?
If you have additional questions, send us a message on our contact page.