Freelance with The 51st

What types of stories do you publish? 

Our focus areas include:

• guides that make living here easier
• reporting that holds accountable local government, nonprofits, businesses, and other folks in power
• stories that showcase the people, arts, and organizations that make D.C. an awesome place to live
• opinion essays from all residents, commenting on the themes listed above

These topics show up as news articles, explainers, D.C.-centric features, and columns like Ask A D.C. Native, the Wilson Building Bulletin, Arts and Eats, and Weekend Events. 

How often do you assign freelance stories? 

We currently have a small budget that allows for an average of five freelance stories per month. 

How do I pitch a story?

For news, send an email to pitches@51st.news

For opinions, send an email to opinions@51st.news

What makes a good pitch for The 51st? 

We usually consider a pitch that does the following: 

• Covers D.C. proper.
• Is NOT just a broad topic or idea, but a specific story with a new or unique angle. 
• Includes who, exactly, you’ll interview and why. 
• Tells us why this story is relevant to our readers or why they need to know about it. 
• Tells us why this story should be published in this moment. 
• Explains why you’re the best person to write this story.

Why wouldn’t you accept a pitch? 

We may not accept a pitch if it doesn’t meet the criteria above; if we — or another local news outlet — recently published a similar story; if we already have stories on a similar topic in the works; or if we don’t have the budget or editorial capacity to accept the pitch at that time, among other reasons. We’re actively fundraising to increase the amount we can publish but, for now, we’re a small, part-time team with a limited freelance budget. 

How long does it take to hear back? 

Because we are a small team, we unfortunately can’t respond to all pitches. If you don’t hear back within two weeks, it’s likely not a good fit for us, and you can feel free to pitch elsewhere. 

How much do you pay? 

Check out this sheet for article, photography, and illustration rates.

Note: It's important for us to equitably pay freelancer contributors, which is why our rates are public and accessible. As a reader-funded newsroom with a limited editorial budget, we welcome donations in the form of articles, photographs, and other volunteer labor. This is not expected or required, but if you would like to do so, please notify your assigning editor.