Get Published in One of the Nation’s Most Influential Black Newspapers
Now accepting submissions for On The Record
Have a story to tell?
On The Record, the youth publication of the New York Amsterdam News, is now accepting story submissions from teen journalists.
Great journalism includes every perspective—including yours.
Whether you’re an experienced student reporter or writing your very first story, we want to hear what young people are seeing, questioning, and uncovering in their communities.
While we’re especially seeking submissions from teenagers in New York, we welcome story pitches from young people across the country. We’re particularly interested in stories that highlight Black, African American, Afro-Latinx, and other communities of color.
What Can You Write About?
Education
You’re the one walking the hallways every day. What stories are adults missing? Report on what’s happening inside schools—from student life and school policies to funding, safety, academics, and extracurricular activities.
Politics
You may not be old enough to vote, but politics still affects your life. How are local, state, and national decisions shaping the experiences of young people? Tell the story from your generation’s perspective.
Environment
Climate change isn’t just a headline. How is it affecting your neighborhood, your health, your future, or the places you care about?
Identity & Family
Explore what family, culture, identity, and belonging mean today. Share stories about the people, traditions, and communities that shape who we are.
Issues That Matter
Write about the topics young people believe deserve more attention. Whether it’s housing, religion, technology, mental health, public safety, transportation, or another issue, we’re looking for thoughtful reporting that explores both challenges and possible solutions.
Community Profiles
Know someone making a difference? Profile a teacher, artist, organizer, student, entrepreneur, nonprofit leader, or small business owner whose story deserves to be told.
Have Another Idea?
We’d love to hear it. If your story doesn’t fit one of these categories, send us a pitch anyway.
What We’re Looking For
News Stories
Timely, fact-based reporting on current events. News stories are typically written in the third person and often can be reported and written within a few days.
Reported Opinion
Have an opinion? Support it with reporting.
We’re looking for thoughtful opinion pieces that combine interviews, research, and evidence to make a compelling argument—not simply personal opinions.
Ready to Submit?
Already have a completed story?
Email it to josh.barker@amsterdamnews.com with “ON THE RECORD Submission” in the subject line.
Want to pitch a story first?
Before submitting your idea, consider these questions:
- Has this story already been covered? If so, what’s your unique angle?
- Approximately how long will the story be?
- When can you submit a first draft?
- Who do you plan to interview?
- Are your sources willing to speak on the record and be identified?
Need Reporting Support?
Because of our newsroom’s capacity, we can’t provide extensive editing for every submission.
However, we’ve partnered with the Youth Journalism Coalition, which offers mentorship and guidance for aspiring student journalists.
To be connected with a mentor, email:
Not Ready to Submit?
That’s okay!
If you don’t have a story yet, sign up for our email list to stay up to date on On The Record opportunities, story calls, workshops, and publication announcements.
Your first byline could be just one story away.
