Disability is often seen in a negative light, as loss, deficit or tragedy. But we can also talk about the good that can come from it, such as creativity, resourcefulness, community connections, new directions, and unique abilities. Arts AccessAbility Network Manitoba is seeking writing that flips the script and shows what we can gain from disability. Selected contributions will be published in an anthology edited by Diane Driedger and Sara Arenson.
We are looking for essays, fiction, non-fiction, poetry, memoir or work that defies genre, from writers who self-identify as having a disability, whether physical, sensory, neurological, intellectual, mental health, neurodivergence, or chronic illness. We welcome submissions from writers of all genders, ages, backgrounds, and lived experiences, including but not limited to 2SLGBTQIA+/2SQTBIPOC, Indigenous, Black, racialized, and immigrant communities.
Submit prose of any genre up to 1,000 words, or up to three poems.
Deadline: October 15, 2025
Here are a few sample topics to get you thinking:
- Does my disability have a “silver lining”?
- What positive experiences and opportunities have I had because of my disability?
- What strengths (or even superpowers) has my disability brought me?
- What have I learned that I wouldn’t have without disability in my life?
- How does disability benefit community, society or civilization as a whole?
Each selected contributor will receive an honorarium and a copy of the published book.
We are seeking writing from all over Canada, with a large part of the book devoted to work by Manitobans. We are eager to hear from local writers!
Please send your writing to:
info@aanm.ca (Subject: Anthology Submission)
or
Anthology Submissions
Arts AccessAbility Network Manitoba
102 – 329 Cumberland Ave.
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 1T2
If you have any questions, please contact AANM at info@aanm.ca or 204-336-2366