Publication: Oxford American
Topic(s): Food, Culture, Identity, Sustainability
Pay Rate: Up to $1,000+ per piece
Deadline: 15 November 2025
About the Opportunity
The Oxford American—a highly respected magazine dedicated to exploring the culture, identity, and stories of the American South—is now accepting pitches for its Spring 2026 Food Issue.
This upcoming issue seeks original, narrative-driven food stories that go beyond recipes to reveal how food shapes communities, preserves traditions, and transcends borders. Writers are encouraged to submit pieces that combine strong storytelling with cultural insight and depth.
Whether your piece is a personal essay, in-depth feature, or character-driven profile, this is an excellent opportunity to publish your work in one of the most prestigious literary and cultural magazines in the United States.
What They’re Looking For
Writers are invited to explore the Southern food landscape in all its richness and complexity through a variety of formats, including:
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Reported features on food systems, sustainability, or labor.
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Profiles of culinary innovators, activists, or overlooked contributors in the food world.
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Historical or political analyses of a dish, ingredient, or culinary tradition.
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Personal essays that use food as a lens to examine culture, family, or identity.
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Critical essays or trend pieces that capture shifts in the Southern food scene.
Pitch Guidelines
When submitting your pitch, include the following:
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A clear and concise description of your story idea.
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A brief explanation of why the story matters and what makes it unique.
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A short note on why you are the right person to tell this story.
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An outline of how you plan to approach the piece (key sources, structure, and focus).
Send your pitches to submissions@oxfordamerican.org before the 15 November 2025 deadline.
To understand the publication’s tone and editorial approach, review previous issues such as Food and Love on Nashville’s Nolensville Pike and Good Neighbors.
Payment
Writers can earn up to $1,000 or more per accepted story, depending on the length, scope, and depth of reporting. Payment details should be confirmed upon acceptance.
Why Submit to Oxford American
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A chance to publish in one of America’s most respected cultural magazines.
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Exposure to a wide audience of readers passionate about food, culture, and storytelling.
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An opportunity to deepen your portfolio with meaningful, well-compensated work.
